Why Do Electric Bikes Have Speed Limiters in the US?

Since their appearance, ebikes have completely changed the way we commute, exercise, and explore. With an electric bike, you have the comfort and easiness of a traditional bike with the addition of an electric motor. However, there is a key feature that sets ebikes apart from motorcycles and other electric vehicles, and this is a speed limiter.

US electric bike laws require all ebikes to have a speed limiter that does not exceed a specific speed, thus ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. In this post, we’ll talk about the importance of these limiters, why they’re there in the first place, and everything you need to know before getting your first ebike.

Electric bikes have a unique design, which combines traditional pedal power with an electric motor to assist the rider. This motor is typically powered by a rechargeable battery, and you can choose whether to pedal normally or use pedal assistance to get to your destination.

In the US, ebikes are classified into three different categories based on their speed:

All classes have a built-in ebike speed limit to ensure they do not exceed their designated maximum speeds. 

The main reason ebikes have speed limits in the US is for safety. Since they’re somewhat in the middle of being a traditional bike and a small motorcycle, they pose risks, such as being ridden too fast in environments where cyclists and cars share the same road. The speed limiters help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, making ebikes safer for riders and others on the road as well.

Let’s take a closer look at the main reasons why ebike regulations and speed limits are essential.

In cities where ebikes are becoming more popular, the accidents associated with them are a growing concern. Riding at high speeds increases the likelihood of accidents and the severity of the injuries that may be caused, which is why speed limiters play a key role in keeping ebike riders within safe speed margins.

Without ebike speed limits, electric bikes could easily reach speeds that make it difficult for riders to react in time to avoid collisions and accidents. And you might think “What’s the difference with a traditional motorcycle?”, ebikes can be purchased by anyone and do not require you to pass a driving test or get a special license as you’d need with a motorcycle.

By limiting speeds, ebikes become more predictable and easy to maneuver, reducing the chance of crashes.

Federal laws state that ebikes should be capped at 20 mph (without pedaling), while pedal-assist models can go up to 28 mph. However, different states have their own set of rules that might modify these limits.

For example, in New York, ebikes were prohibited for years due to safety concerns, and since the implementation of speed limit regulations, electric bikes are now allowed to be used.

Different states have their own classification of ebikes as well. In California, class 3 ebikes must have a speedometer, and riders under 17 are required to wear a helmet.

US electric bike laws might vary depending on where you are, so you’ll need to do your research and ensure you’re complying with all the regulations. But speed limits will remain the same in all states!

Speed limiters are not something to be seen as “restrictive”, on the contrary, they offer several benefits that will enhance your safety and convenience as a rider. Let’s break them down in the following sections.

By limiting speeds, ebikes are more accessible to a wider range of users, such as older adults who may not feel comfortable riding at high speeds, and younger riders who want a safer (but slightly faster) commuting option.

Plus, speed limiters make it easier for cities to adopt and encourage ebikes as a sustainable transportation solution.

Speed limiters also help your ebike’s battery in optimal conditions. Ebikes, like most electric vehicles, consume more power the faster they travel. With the speed limit, the bike’s motor uses less energy, which allows you to extend the battery life and ride for longer distances without having to charge it more often. 

Can you remove the speed limiter on an ebike?

Technically, you can remove the speed limiter, like you can remove any part of an ebike. But doing it is not recommended, not to mention illegal in many areas. Ebike speed limits are there to comply with local regulations, and tampering with the device could classify the bike as a motor vehicle, which will subject your bike to different legal requirements such as insurance, licensing, and safety inspections.

What happens if I exceed the speed limit on my ebike?

If you exceed the speed limit set by the device, most ebikes will automatically cut motor assistance until you drop below the limit again. However, if you’re pedaling without motor assistance, you can still go faster. This is usually less efficient and harder to maintain. 

Speed limits on ebikes play a key role in keeping everyone safe and compliant with US electric bike laws. By keeping them at manageable speeds, limiters help prevent accidents and allow a wide range of people to use them daily.

At HappyRun, we take this matter very seriously, which is why all our adult electric bike models perfectly blend comfort, safety, and convenience. If you have any doubts or need assistance before or after purchasing your electric bike, check out our help center!