Key Takeaways: In theory, an electric bike equipped with a 1000w motor could travel up to 28 to 35 miles per hour. This metric can be impacted by what pedal-assist level you are operating with and whether or not the bike has a throttle mechanism. Local rules and regulations and terrain type can also determine an eBike’s top speed. Those looking to purchase a high-end electric bike may be wondering just how fast they’ll be able to go and how that relates to the advertised wattage of the eBike itself. How Fast is a 1000W Electric Bike? 1000 watts is a lot of power, which can translate to a maximum speed of 28 to 35 miles per hour. Though a motor’s overall wattage can contribute to an electric bike’s top speed, it is not the only factor. Tip: 1000 watts is a lot of power, which can translate to a maximum speed of 28 to 35 miles per hour eBike Wattage and Speed Explained Generally speaking, an eBike motor with a higher maximum wattage will translate to a higher maximum speed. There are a number of other factors to consider, however, when trying to figure out a bike’s maximum speed. Pedelec and Throttle It is important to note that many electric bikes are designed to merely offer pedal assistance, otherwise known as Pedelec. In other words, the top speed will still be primarily designated by how fast you can pedal. Of course, descending steep inclines can increase this speed significantly. On the other hand, some modern electric bikes include a throttle. This mechanism allows the bike to operate without any manual input, turning an electric bike into something resembling a scooter. In this case, the bike’s overall wattage should designate the top speed provided by the throttle. Warning: It is important to note that many electric bikes are designed to merely offer pedal assistance, otherwise known as Pedelec Tip: This mechanism allows the bike to operate without any manual input, turning an electric bike into something resembling a scooter Terrain Type and Hills When a manufacturer advertises a top speed for an electric bike, they are assuming use on a smooth and flat surface, which does not always match real-world scenarios. Rocky terrains and overgrowth can severely impact a bike’s top speed, as can potholes and other obstacles. Additionally, riding up hills could tax the motor and the battery, further decreasing this top speed. In other words, be sure to do your research before making a purchase to ensure the electric bike works as advertised. Rules of the Road Though a 1000 watt motor could technically be physically able to transport the bike up to a maximum speed of around 35 miles per hour, this will ultimately be decided by the laws and regulations that make up your state and country. Modern electric bike motors are purpose-built to adhere to maximum speed requirements, which differ depending on where you live. In most states in America, for instance, the maximum speed allowed can range from 20 to 28 miles per hour. Warning: Though a 1000 watt motor could technically be physically able to transport the bike up to a maximum speed of around 35 miles per hour, this will ultimately be decided by the laws and regulations that make up your state and country Tip: In most states in America, for instance, the maximum speed allowed can range from 20 to 28 miles per hour STAT: In the US (Class 1 & 2) 20mph is the legal limit at which the motor can assist the rider on an e-bike and in Europe, it is 15.5mph. (Source) Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watt https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_power https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/4283505 *https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjcsla7U6GM
