E-bike classes explained: Class 1, 2 and 3
Updated October 2026 · figures from the 147 e-bikes in our catalog
Most US states sort e-bikes into three classes. The class decides how the motor helps you and how fast it will help, and that in turn decides where you can ride. It is the single most useful thing to know before buying, because a bike you can’t ride on your route isn’t much use.
| Class | How the motor helps | Assists up to | Throttle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Only while you pedal | 20 mph | No |
| Class 2 | While you pedal, or on its own with a throttle | 20 mph | Yes |
| Class 3 | Only while you pedal | 28 mph | Usually no* |
* Some states allow a Class 3 bike to have a throttle that works up to 20 mph. Rules vary.
Where each class can usually ride
Classes 1 and 2 are generally treated like ordinary bicycles: they’re usually allowed in bike lanes and on many paved bike paths. Class 3 bikes are usually allowed on roads and in bike lanes, but are often kept off shared paths and trails because of their speed. Some states also set a minimum age for Class 3 riders, require a helmet, or require a speedometer.
These are typical patterns, not law. Cities, park systems and land managers can set their own rules, and they change. Check the rules for your state and for the specific paths you plan to use.
What makes something not an e-bike
Under federal product-safety rules, a low-speed electric bicycle has working pedals, a motor of 750 watts or less, and a top speed under 20 mph on motor power alone. Bikes that go faster on throttle, or have much bigger motors, may be treated as mopeds or motor vehicles in your state, with registration, licensing or insurance rules. Many “off-road” or “unlocked” modes take a bike outside its class, and with it the legal protections of being an e-bike.
Which class should you choose?
- Class 1 if you ride shared paths and trails a lot, or want the bike to feel like a regular bicycle.
- Class 2 if you want a throttle for starting at lights, carrying loads, or riding when your legs are tired.
- Class 3 if you commute on roads over longer distances: 28 mph assist can shorten a 10-mile commute noticeably.
Common questions
Is a Class 3 e-bike faster than a Class 2?
With pedal assist, yes: Class 3 assists up to 28 mph and Class 2 up to 20 mph. On throttle alone, a Class 2 bike tops out at 20 mph.
Do I need a license for an e-bike?
In most US states, no license or registration is needed for Class 1, 2 or 3 e-bikes. Some states set age or helmet rules for Class 3. Bikes outside the three classes may be treated as mopeds.
Can I change my e-bike's class?
Many bikes let you switch class in a settings menu or app. Setting it to the class allowed where you're riding keeps you legal; unlocking it beyond Class 3 usually doesn't.