What Is A Class 2 E-bike? Guide & Riding Rules
Depending on how it is designed and mileage it provides, e-bikes are classified in 4 different classes. Even though e-bikes are basically bicycles, based on the power of motor, speed and design the definition of e-bike classes vary as well as the law.
In this article I will talk about the class e-bikes and how it will help you in your commuting. Let’s dive in!
What Is A Class 2 E-Bike?
A class 2 e-bike is a throttle assisted motor bicycle that has a speed limit of 20MPH. The wattage limit of the motor can vary from 250watts to upto 750watts.
Even though originally class 2 e-bikes are classified as throttle assisted, most of the class 2 e-bikes come with pedal-assist mode too.
Class 2 E-Bike Speed
Class 2 e-bike’s speed is limited to 20mph or 32km\h. If a e-bike’s speed limit crosses the threshold, it won’t be counted as a class 2 e-bike.
What is the difference between a Class 1 and Class 2 eBike?
The only difference between class 1 and class 2 ebikes is their mode of riding. The class 1 e-bikes are only pedal-assisted while class 2 e-bikes come with throttle assisted and some of them combine with both the modes.
What Is The Difference Between Class 2 E-Bike And Class 3 E-Bike?
Let’s have a look at how class 2 ebike is different from class 3 ebike.
| Class 2 E-bike | Class 3 E-bike | |
| Mode | Throttle assisted & Pedal-assisted | Pedal assisted only |
| Speed limit | 20mph | 28mph |
| Motor Wattage | 750W | 750W |
How Do You Classify An E-Bike?
E-bikes are classified depending on the pedaling mode, speed limit and motor wattage. They are classified in 4 types by the state law.
Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assisted with a speed limit 20 mph wehere Class 2 e-bikes are throttle-assisted and have the same speed limit as class 1 e-bike 20mph. Class 3 e-bikes on the other hand can only be pedal assisted and have a speed limit of 28mph.
What Are The Benefits Of A Class 2 E-Bike?
If you are a daily commuter and travel long distances then class 2 ebike is bildly for you. Let me share its benefits with you.
What Are The Restrictions Of A Class 2 E-Bike?
Lucky for you! Class 2 e-bikes don’t have any restrictions in almost any state. You can ride them in bike paths and lanes without any obligations. Besides, almost no state has any helmet laws for class 2 ebikes.
However, I would always recommend wearing a helmet even if you’re going 1 block away from your home.
How Does A Class 2 E Bike Work?
A class 2 e bike is a throttle assisted e-bike. However, most of the modern e-bikes also have the pedal-assist mode. Throttle assist doesn’t require any pedaling and it will move for itself without any help. On the other hand, while you’re in pedal-assist mode, you have to pedal lightly to get the support of the motor.
Can you override ebike speed limit?
Yes, there are few hecks to override the speed limit, however, it may void the manufacturer warranty. Besides,if it exceeds the class limit, your access to bike lanes and paths may be revoked.
The Top Rated Brands For Class 2 E-Bike
- Rad Power Bikes
- Lectric
- Quietkat
- Ride1Up
- Aventon
Some Of The Best Class 2 E-Bikes
| Class 2 E-bike Name | Battery | Motor Wattage | Weight limit |
| RadRover 6 Plus Electric Fat Tire Bike | 672 Wh | 750W | 275 lbs |
| Schwinn Coston DX | 360Wh | 250W | Approx. 300 lbs |
| Ranger Fat Tire Electric Mountain Bike | QUIETKAT USA | 614Wh | 750W | 325 lbs |
| Hurley – Tailside | 360Wh | 350W | Approx. 275 lbs |
| Engwe – C20 Pro | 691Wh | 250W | 330 lbs |
Class 2 Electric Bike Laws
Since e-bikes are motor assisted and faster than regular bikes, several laws are enforced regarding e-bike speed limits and usage restrictions.
Class 2 E-Bike Uk
If you are residing or want to have a trip in the UK and want to ride bikes there, you can check out their law regarding the ebikes.
Learn More About Uk Class 2 E-Bike Law
Class 2 E-Bike Canada
Different provinces have different laws for e-bikes in Canada. You will find all the laws for every province herel.
Learn More About Canada Class 2 E-Bike Law
Class 2 E-Bike California
California has the most strict law of ebikes. Let’s find out them.
Learn More About California Class 2 E-Bike Law
Class 2 E-Biketexas
Let’s have a look at the rules and regulations of Texas for class 2 e-bikes.
Learn More About Biketexas
Class 2 E-Bike Sticker
Most of the states in the USA require the e-bike to have a sticker for the class. The sticker bears the information of the bike such as class, motor power, and speed. It helps the police to recognise the e-bikes and their access eligibility in the lanes and paths.
If your manufacturer doesn’t provide you with a sticker or you lost it, don’t worry! You can buy one anytime from Amazon.
Conclusion
Class 2 e-bike is the perfect fit for anybody who looks for easy and speedy transportation without the hassles of vehicle registration, and extra taxes while not having to break a sweat like a traditional bike. Despite being throttle assisted e-bike, class 2 e bikes are permitted to ride through bike lanes and paths in almost all the states in the USA. So why are you still hesitating? Go for one!
FAQ
Does Trek make a Class 2 ebike?
Yes, trek make class 2 e-bike.
Can you ride an electric bike without pedaling?
Yes, if your electric bike has throttle assisted mode, you can ride without pedaling.
Is the RAD runner a Class 2 ebike?
Yes, the RAD runner e-bike is a class 2 ebike.
How fast is a Class 2 ebike?
Class to ebike is no more than 20 MPH fast.
