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!
799
2024
300W
374.4Wh
The Lectric XP Lite 2.0 is an affordable, lightweight, foldable electric bike featuring a new color display, puncture-resistant tires, hydraulic brakes, and a powerful 300W motor, with options for extended range batteries. Designed for portability, it offers BMX-style handlebars and multiple color choices. Known for its value and solid customer support from Lectric.
1,295
2023
750W
624Wh
The Ride1Up Turris is a budget-friendly, high-quality electric bicycle from Ride1Up, a well-known US-based e-bike company. Released as a replacement for the 500 series and blending features from the Core-5 and LMTD models, the Turris features a 750-watt Shengyi motor, hydraulic Zoom disc brakes, an integrated LG battery, Shimano Altus 7-speed derailleur, 100mm coil suspension, 27.5" x 2.4" tires, metal fenders, and a range of up to 50 miles per charge. It is designed for urban commuting and off-road riding, offering better-than-budget components at an accessible price.
1,189
2023
500W
691Wh
The Velotric Discover 1 is a budget-friendly electric bike featuring premium elements such as hydraulic suspension with 80mm travel, 2-piston hydraulic disc brakes with 180mm rotors, integrated fenders, and an aesthetically pleasing design with seven color options. It features an integrated battery that matches the frame, integrated rear fender brake light, comfy seat, and IPX6 water resistance. It's a class 2 ebike with a 20mph top speed (throttle and PAS), 26x2.5" balloon-style tires, and Shimano Tourney derailleur.
1,799
750W
840Wh
The KBO Ranger is a versatile, budget-friendly cargo electric bike equipped with a 750W motor and an 840Wh battery. Ideal for carrying passengers or cargo, it features a step-thru frame, rear rack, running boards, and a variety of available accessories. Designed for commuting, deliveries, and family transport, the Ranger supports up to 400 lbs of cargo and passenger weight.
1,499
2023
750W
691Wh
The Velotric Nomad 1 is an affordable, feature-packed fat tire electric bicycle from new e-bike company Velotric, whose team includes engineers and designers from premium brands like Lime, Specialized, Decathlon, and Giant. It features 26x4-inch fat CST BFT tires, hydraulic fork suspension with 80 mm travel, hydraulic brakes, a 48V 14.4Ah LG/Samsung battery, and IPX6 water resistance. It is UL certified and designed for all-weather and off-road capability. Available in 7 colors with quality cable management, fenders, and display readable in sunlight.
0
2022
W
Wh
The G-FORCE ZF is a stylish, moped-style electric bike featuring alloy rims, full suspension (hydraulic front, coil rear), large battery options (13.5Ah or 20Ah), color display, 20x4 inch knobby tires, and hydraulic brakes. It offers a long saddle for comfort and a bright, uniquely designed LED headlight. Ideal for long, comfy rides and daily commuting with a plush ride feel.
999
2023
500W
374Wh
The LECTRIC XP 3.0 is an upgraded version of America's best selling ebike, maintaining its budget-friendly price. It offers major enhancements including a more powerful 500W motor with 55 Nm of torque, a built-in rear rack with a 150 lb weight limit, improved front suspension, and better cable management. LECTRIC is headquartered in Phoenix, AZ with US-based customer service. The bike features foldable portability, mechanical disc brakes, and pre-slimed tires for reduced flats. It's known for great ride quality and the ability to carry a passenger.
0
2022
750W
Wh
The Ride1Up Café Cruiser is a quality eBike suitable for cruising, commuting, light cargo, and carrying a second passenger with an optional easy-to-install seat. It features a budget-friendly price, powerful motor, swooped handlebars for upright riding, Zoom hydraulic brakes, balloon tires, integrated rack, and is built with quality components. The US-based company offers good customer service. The bike is well-suited for both solo and passenger rides.
0
2022
W
672Wh
The 2022 Aventon Sinch is an upgraded foldable ebike featuring a Bluetooth-connected color display, integrated Aventon app compatibility, and a 48V 14Ah battery built into the frame. The compact foldable design makes it ideal for RV, van life, and riders with space constraints. The Sinch is equipped with 20"x4" knobby Kenda Krusade nylon tires, Tektro mechanical disc brakes, and a front suspension with 45mm travel. New features for 2022 include throttle operation without pedaling and a new Cloud Gray color option.
3,000
500W
624Wh
The Cyberbike Mullet Pro is a premium full suspension electric mountain bike designed with a unique 'mullet' setup: a 29-inch front tire and a 27.5-inch rear tire for optimal stability and nimbleness. It features a 500-watt mid-drive motor with a torque sensor, hydraulic dropper post, four-piston brakes, and Maxxis Forekaster tires. The bike is marketed as a budget-friendly alternative to higher-priced e-mountain bikes while delivering similar performance. Its battery is not integrated into the frame but is comparable in size to industry-leading models, making it suitable for both casual and experienced riders.
799
2023
300W
374.4Wh
The Lectric XP LITE is an ultra-light, affordable, foldable electric bike from US-based Lectric Ebikes. It comes in four colors, features a 300W motor, an internal 48V 7.8Ah battery, and is designed for portability and urban use. The XP LITE is targeted at riders seeking an economical, easy-to-carry e-bike with basic features, lacking accessories like fenders or suspension to reduce cost and weight.
999
2021
500W
460.8Wh
The Lectric XP 2.0 is a foldable, budget-friendly electric bike by Lectric, known for its feature-rich package, compact foldable design, and strong performance at a low price. It is ideal for beginners, commuters, and RV travelers seeking portability and convenience. Notable features include a built-in frame battery, 500W rear hub motor, IP65 water resistance, metal fenders, and large, visible display. It can be upgraded with a comfort package for improved ride quality.
1,799
2023
500W
672Wh
The Aventon Sinch Step Through (ST) is a foldable, step-through electric bike with a premium look and high-quality build. Aventon, a company established in 2012 and known for innovative ebike designs, delivers the Sinch ST almost fully assembled. This compact ebike features a 48V 14Ah battery with LG or Samsung cells, 20" by 4" tires, mechanical disc brakes, a color Bluetooth display with app integration, and a thumb throttle. The Sinch ST is ideal for people who need portability, easy mounting, and a stylish appearance.