E-Bike Classes: Difference Between Class 1, 2, 3

Choosing between e-bike classes 1, 2, and 3 could be a little difficult if you’re not exactly sure what the differences are between each class or what your desired use case is.

Why classify e-bikes 1, 2, and 3

Different countries and regions may have their classifications and regulations for electric bikes, taking into account factors such as maximum speed, power output, and motor activation. Always check your local laws and regulations before purchasing an electric bike.

Find your state's e-bike rules here: https://www.peopleforbikes.org/electric-bikes/state-laws

The classification for electric bikes is not exclusive to the United States, Europe also has its classification for electric bikes, a little different from the United States.

These classifications and regulations aim to provide guidelines for e-bike usage, ensure safety, and determine where e-bikes are allowed to operate.

In our country, electric bikes are classified into Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 e-bikes, which are defined by the type of pedal assistance and maximum assisted speed. Below are the differences as typically applied in the United States.

What is class 1, 2, and 3

Class 1 e-bikes:

1. Maximum Assisted Speed: 20 mph (32 km/h)
2. Maximum Motor Rated Power: 750 Watts (1 horsepower)
3. Pedal Assistance: Provides motor assistance only when the rider is pedaling(No throttle).
4. Legal Considerations: Class 1 e-bikes are generally allowed in areas where traditional bicycles are permitted, including bike lanes, paths, and trails.

1. Maximum Assisted Speed: 20 mph (32 km/h)
2. Maximum Motor Rated Power: 750 Watts (1 horsepower)
3. Throttle: Can be operated directly(without pedaling), using a throttle mounted on the handlebar to activate the motor; Also equipped with Pedal Assist System(PAS)
4. Legal Considerations: Class 2 e-bikes may have varying regulations depending on state and local laws. Some areas allow them on roads, streets, and bike paths, while others restrict their use to roads and streets only.

1. Maximum Assisted Speed: 28 mph (45 km/h)
2. Maximum Motor Rated Power: 750 Watts (1 horsepower)
3. Pedal Assistance: Provides motor assistance only when the rider is pedaling(No throttle).
4. Legal Considerations: Class 3 e-bikes are typically subject to more specific regulations and may require additional safety features. They are generally not allowed on bike paths or trails designated for normal bicycles but can be used on roads and streets, following the same rules as normal bicycles.

A detailed explanation of Class 1 e-bikes

Class 1 e-bikes are treated like normal mountain or pavement bicycles in some states, legally allowed to ride where bicycles are permitted, including bike lanes, roads, multi-use trails, and bike-only paths.

Class 1 e-bike definition is having a maximum speed of 20 MPH and is equipped with an electric motor without throttle that only works when the rider is pedaling. Once you start pedaling you will be able to get up to 20 mph (miles per hour), Exceeding this speed, the motor will not work.

Class 1 e-bike riders could ride anywhere(the same as normal bikes) they would due to the low speed and operation. Meaning class 1 electric bikes are allowed on bike lanes, bike paths, and on the road.

A detailed explanation of Class 2 e-bikes

Class 2 e-bikes are often allowed in most places where a traditional bike can go, but some states or cities have add-on restrictions (such as New York City).

Class 2 e-bikes assist when pedaling or by using a throttle and has a maximum speed of 20 mph. The throttle always comes in a grip twist or a button that you hold to make the bike move without pedaling.

All Qualisports e-bikes are class 2 e-bikes, equipped with a throttle; They are 1) Nemo, a very small, exquisite, lightweight e-bike, only 34 lbs; 2) Volador, equipped with Shimano 7-SPEED gears, only 38 lbs; 3) Dolphin, dual-batteries, hydraulic brake USB ports, weight about 51 lbs; 4) Beluga, a 4.25” fat tire e-bike for off-road, sand, and adventurous bike rides.

A class 2 e-bike is capable of riding in most places you ride a normal bike.

A detailed explanation of Class 3 e-bikes

Class 3 e-bikes are generally allowed on roads and on-road bike lanes but can't travel on bike trails.

Class 3 electric bikes just have pedal assist and top off at 28mph. Due to the higher speed of class 3 electric bikes, they’re restricted from certain bike trails and bike paths.

What makes Qualisports’s electric bikes unique is that they are equipped with both pedal assist and throttle. We keep making high-quality and affordable e-bikes that are accessible to everyone, we hope our Qualisports e-bike could delight your life.

To sum up

Class 1: Pedal-assist only; motor assists up to 20 mph.

Class 2: Pedal-assist and throttle; motor assists up to 20 mph.

Class 3: Pedal assist only; motor assists up to 28 mph.

Learn more at peopleforbikes.org: https://www.peopleforbikes.org/topics/electric-bikes