What Is A Class 1 Ebike? Laws , Speed & Guide
The electric bikes which don’t have a throttle mode and runs with only pedal-assist mode with a maximum speed of 20 MPH are classified as class 1 ebike.
Besides, the motor wattage of a class 1 e-bike is no more than 750. You can ride your class 1 ebike in a general bicycle lane without any obligation.
E-bikes come in tons of types, styles, shapes, specifications. However, most of the states classified them in 4 types according to their mode of pedaling, top speed and wattage of the motor. In this article, I will be discussing the class 1 ebike with you so that next time you know which lanes and paths to ride with your beast.
What Is a Pedal-Assist?
Pedal-assist is a special mode of ebikes that allows you to get a boost of power while pedaling. To use pedal-assist mode, you simply pedal the bike like normal and the motor will provide power to help you achieve faster speed.
How Do They Work?
So the question is how does the pedal assist work? Well, it is an excellent engineering of the cadence sensor that locates into the drivetrain. When you push the pedal, the motor gets the signal through the cadence sensor and provides required assistance. You can set the assistance level based on how much speed you’re looking for.
How Fast Are Class 1 E-Bikes?
Class 1 ebike speed can be anything up to 20 MPH regarding the brands. If it exceeds the speed limit 20 MPH then it will no longer count as a class 1 ebike.
Class 1 Vs Class 2 Ebike
There are few core differences between class 1 ebikes and class 2 ebikes. Let’s see them.
| Name | Class 1 | Class 2 |
| Mode | Only Pedal-Assist | Pedal-assist & Throttle |
| Maximum Speed | 20 MPH | 20 MPH |
| Motor | Up to 750W | Up to 750W |
Class 1 Vs Class 3 Ebike
Class 1 ebike and class 3 ebike are almost identical except the speed limit. Let’s have a look.
| Name | Class 1 | Class 3 |
| Mode | Only Pedal-Assist | Only Pedal-Assist |
| Maximum Speed | 20 MPH | 28 MPH |
| Motor | Up to 750W | Up to 750W |
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Class 1 Ebike?
Class 1 e-bikes have plenty of benefits for the regular commuters. Let’s take a look at them.
- The first and foremost benefits of having a class 1 ebike is you can ride the bike in any bike lanes and paths like a traditional non-ebikes. No state in the U.S has any obligation of riding class 1 e-bikes in regular bike lanes.
- They are comparatively less pricier than throttle-enabled ebikes.
- You can travel further and faster with less effort.
- You’ll be able to ride on trails that may be off-limits to traditional bikes and have a motor assist when climbing hills.
- Class 1 ebikes can also be a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, as they emit far less pollution than cars.
Who Can Use A Class 1 Ebike?
Everyone can use class 1 ebike from every US States. However, if someone needs a bike with higher speed than 20 MPH then it wouldn’t be a good choice. They should look for class 3 e-bikes or other ebikes that are not classified by the state’s law.
Where Can You Use A Class 1 Ebike?
You can use a class 1 e-bike in every lane and path where any bike is permitted to go. In other words, Class 1 e-bikes are similar to traditional non-ebikes by all the U.S States.
How Much Do They Cost?
Doesn’t matter if it’s class 1 e-bike or class 3 e-bike, the price depends on brands and several other features such as motor wattage, display, suspension type, battery and so on. Depending on these features the price could be anything between $300 to $3000. But let me assure you, class 1 e-bikes are way cheaper when it comes to comparing with class 2 and class 3 ebikes.
Top 5 Brand Name
- Co-op Cycles
- Trek Bikes
- The Electro
- Gazelle
- Cannondale
Top 5 Class 1 E-Bike List
I listed the top 5 e-bikes for you. It’s worth looking at a glance!
| Class 1 E-bike Name | Battery | Motor Wattage | Material |
| Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2 Electric Bike | 36V Lithium-ion | 250W | 6061 Aluminum |
| Pace 350 Next-Gen Step-Through Ebike | 36V Lithium-ion | 350W Brushless Motor | 6061 Aluminum |
| Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 Remixte Electric Bike | 36V Lithium-ion | 250W | C3 Alloy |
| Rad Power RadMission Singlespeed | 36V Lithium-ion | 500W | 6061 aluminum |
| Ultimate T10 HMB | 36V Lithium-ion | 500W | 6061 aluminum |
Class 1 Ebike Law
There are individual laws for bikes in every state of the U.S.A. They have slight differences in some of the terms. You should check your state’s website to learn the law. Here I am including a few links of state laws.
New York City Class 1 Ebike Law
NewYork is one of the busiest cities in the States. Check out all the laws before you ride for the first time on the road.
Learn more about New York City Class 1 Ebike Law
Law For Class 1 Ebike: California
Check out the latest californian states law for two wheelers including class 1 ebikes.
Learn more about California Class 1 Ebike Law
Law For Class 1 Ebike: Canada
Canada is quite similar to the USA. They also have different laws for different provinces. You can have a quick look here to check out the Canadian laws for class 1 ebikes.
Learn more about Canada Class 1 Ebike Law
Conclusion
Class 1 ebikes are the safest option for frequent commuters. A class 1 ebike doesn’t have any restrictions to ride on bike lanes or bike paths in any US states or canadian province. If you’re not concerned with the top speed, then it’s time for you to grab a class 1 e-bike. Happy riding!
FAQ
What is the age limit for Class 1 e-Bike?
There are no age restrictions for class 1 e-bikes in any U.S states.
Can you ride a class 1 ebike at mt spokane?
Yes, you can ride class 1 e-bikes at mount spokane.
Is a class 1 ebike a bicycle under cvc?
Yes, class 1 ebikes fall under California Vehicle Code or CVC.
What are the typical operating ranges of Class 1 e-Bikes?
Depending on battery, rider weight and road, a class 1 ebike can operate up to 50 miles or so.
Is a Class 1 e-Bike required to wear a helmet?
Not all the states require wearing a helmet with a class 1 e-bike. You should check your state’s bike law to make sure you’re not getting penalized.
