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Key Takeaways:
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, can be a fantastic way to travel around town or in an offroading capacity. Before making an initial purchase, consumers often wonder just how fast these top electric bicycles can go.
The maximum speed of an e-bike can vary wildly, though the fastest electric bike in the world is the PG Bikes BlackTrail. This commercially available bike can hit speeds up to 100 km/h (62 mph).
In general, the average speed of an electric bike can range from 10 mph to 25 mph, with some models ascending beyond that average. There are a number of factors that determine a bicycle’s maximum speed.
The maximum speed of an electric bike is primarily determined via its integrated motor and related components. The notions of pedal assistance and throttle also play a role in designating the velocity. These motors generally break down into three classes, each with its own max speed.
Each country, state, town, and municipality boast their own rules and regulations regarding electric bike usage. As a matter of fact, many bikes sold in the United States feature motors that can reach speeds higher than 20 or 28 mph, but they contain a mechanism that limits high speeds so as to comply with these local regulations. These mechanisms can be disabled, but this process can be dangerous and will void any warranty and insurance plans you have in place.
In 17 states, an eBike is considered a moped or some other type of motor-driven cycle under pre-existing laws, and moped rules apply. Before you purchase one of these bikes for personal transportation, be sure to look up the laws in your state.
Tip: As a matter of fact, many bikes sold in the United States feature motors that can reach speeds higher than 20 or 28 mph, but they contain a mechanism that limits high speeds so as to comply with these local regulations
Tip: In 17 states, an eBike is considered a moped or some other type of motor-driven cycle under pre-existing laws, and moped rules apply
STAT:
Most e-bike batteries sold in North America are lithium-ion, which will provide a minimum of 500 full charge cycles at which point the battery will hold about 80% of its original capacity. (Source)
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle
http://edutechwiki.unige.ch/en/Electric_bikes_in_education
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352146515002768
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214367X20300041
*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3v_2LuhRQgQ