If you're new to electric bikes, you may have noticed that most of them are marketed with a Class designation. If you're wondering "what the heck is that?", wonder no more! Electric bike classes a way to define the power and capabilities of e-bikes. It's important to note that while classes are based on legal definitions and restrictions, these laws are not universal! They vary significantly from country to country, and within smaller regions (such as US states, or even cities) laws often vary widely.
What Class 2 (usually) means for Electric Bikes in the US and Canada:
- Top speed of 20mph (32kph)
- Motor power of 750 watts or less (this is nominal wattage, not peak)
- Motor power can be activated by pedal assist, and/or by throttle
What Class 2 (usually) means for Electric Bikes in Europe:
Who knows? 🤷 Seriously though, this is a matter of much debate in Europe and rules and availability vary widely from place to place. For most European countries, an e-bike must be limited to 250 watts or less and have a top speed of 25kph (15.5mph), with pedal assist only - that's right, no throttles! If an e-bike is more powerful than that, and especially if it has a throttle, it would technically be considered a moped or light motorcycle; this is typically an L1e-A designation, here is an example of the criteria from Ireland.
To further confuse things, enforcement of e-bike regulations tends to vary even more, with many law enforcement officers not even knowing the laws regarding PEV use in their jurisdictions. For example, in Fort Collins CO it's technically illegal to ride e-bikes on many multi-use trails in the city, but as long as you're riding under 20mph and not being a jerk, no one will care.
The moral of the story: Research laws for your area, and if possible talk to local experts. E-bike shop owners are great for this!
The RadPower RadTrike is a thoughtfully designed electric tricycle ideal for those with mobility challenges. With impressive stability, convenient features like a reverse option and easy-assemble components, it stands out as a user-friendly alternative to traditional bikes. Room for improvement exists in areas like pricing, battery capacity, and component upgrades, but its strengths dominate the experience.
The Aventon Pace 5 is a comfort-first pavement cruiser that packs more technology than anything else in its class, and Andrew and Jimmy put it through a full field session to see if the hardware lives up to the spec sheet. The headline additions are a regen braking system uncommon at this price point and a serious security stack, both of which held up well in testing. The criticisms are short, and the biggest one has more to do with Aventon's own lineup than anything wrong with the bike itself.
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The Aventon Level 4 REC is one of the most complete commuter e-bikes the Freshly Charged team has tested at this price tier. A near-silent 750W hub motor, functional regen braking, app-based security with 4G GPS tracking, integrated brake lights, and a selectable torque/cadence sensor make for a spec sheet that most competitors cannot match point for point. The criticisms are minor: no auto-canceling turn signals, composite pedals over metal, and no included bell. For urban commuters who want a smart, quiet, and well-rounded daily rider, the REC should be on your list to check out.
The AIMA Big Sur is a class 3 fat tire e-bike that features a robust 750W motor, 28 mph top speed, and a high-capacity 48V 15Ah battery. With natural-feeling torque sensor pedal assist, front coil suspension, and quality Shimano/Tektro components, it excels on both roads and light off-road. It's heavy but comfortable, making it a strong value choice.
The Volcon Brat stands out as an ebike with bold motorcycle aesthetics, robust features like 31 mph throttle speed, full suspension, and hydraulic disc brakes. While practical elements and durability impress, issues like ineffective fenders, non-integrated battery, and stiff suspension highlight areas for improvement. A top pick for motorcycle enthusiasts venturing into ebikes.
The 2024 Urtopia Carbon Joy Ultra is a carbon-frame electric cruiser bike positioned at the premium end of the fat-tire e-bike market, targeting riders who prioritize comfort, lightweight construction, and all-day rideability. Its monocoque carbon fiber frame and fork are notably lighter than comparable aluminum builds, and the step-through design with adjustable handlebars and cushioned saddle is engineered for riders across a wide range of heights. The bike is powered by a 500W rear hub motor paired with a torque sensor, a Shimano 8-speed drivetrain, and a UL-2271 certified Samsung battery rated for up to 70 miles of range, with 20" x 3" fat tires and TEKTRO hydraulic disc brakes rounding out the feature set.
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The 2024 Urtopia Carbon Fold 1 is a foldable electric bike designed for urban commuters and riders who prioritize portability without sacrificing performance. Built around a full carbon fiber frame and handlebar, it weighs just 29 lbs, setting it apart in the folding e-bike segment. Key differentiators include a seat post that doubles as a removable LG battery, a torque sensor for natural pedal-assist feel, integrated front and rear lights, hydraulic disc brakes, and a Shimano 8-speed drivetrain rated for up to 40 miles of range per charge.