E-Bike Classes: The Difference Between Class 1, 2, & 3

What are electric bike classes? Choosing between class 1, 2, and 3 e-bike classes could be a little difficult if you are not exactly sure of what the difference between each class is or what you are looking for. Luckily for you here at Aventon we are striving to become your go-to electric bikes' experts to help you along the way with making the best decision when choosing the type of electric bike that would best fit you. There are many different factors as mentioned before that a new bicycle rider has to take into consideration when purchasing the best electric bike. Some of these factors one has to consider is knowing which type of e-bike you are looking for and being able to ride where you live. Many regulations have been put into place since ebikes started entering the market. By now we know that electric bikes have entered the market and are here to stay for good. They have changed the industry in a tremendous way. The many benefits and differences of electric bikes could be found in our blogs. Keep in mind that rules and regulations in the United States vary by state and city so make sure to do your research on where you can ride your electric bike. So let’s get started learning about the difference between all three electric bikes' classes.

Class 1 E-Bike: What is a class 1 electric bike? Class 1 electric bbikes have a maximum speed of 20 MPH and are equipped with an eelctric motor without throttle that works when the rider is pedaling, also known as pedal-assist. What is pedal assist? An electric motor with pedal assist is an ebike whose drive system is only activated once you start pedaling. Once you start pedaling you will be able to get up to 20 mph (miles per hour) on your e-bike. Class 1 ebike riders are given the permission to ride anywhere you would ride any other type of bike due to the low speed and operation. Meaning electric bikes are allowed on bike lanes, bike paths, and on the road. To sum, e-bikes are classified as class 1 when they have PEDAL ASSIST ONLY that tops off at 20 mph and no throttle.

What is a class 2 Electric bike? Class 2 electric bikes provide assistance when pedaling and have a maximum speed of 20 mph with a throttle. What is a throttle/how does it work? A throttle is a feature ebikes have that can come in a grip-twist or button where you hold it down and the bike takes off without you having to be pedaling. Aventon's electric bikes have a safety feature that requires you to start pedaling in order for the throttle to engage. The throttle is limited to a certain speed for safety and regulation reasons. For example, the Aventon Pace 500.2 maxes out at 20mph on throttle and 28mph on pedal assist as does the Aventon Aventure for more daring and adventurous bike rides. In most places you will be able to ride a class 2 electric bike anywhere you would ride a non ebike.

Class 3 E-Bike: What makes a class 3 ebike a class 3 ebike? A class 3 electric bike features Pedal Assist only and tops off at 28mph. Due to the high power class 3 electric bikes have, they are restricted from certain bike trails and bike paths. What makes our elrctric bikes unique are that they feature both pedal assist AND throttle. We build high quality products that are to access for all people which is why we wanted to make sure our electric bikes are obtainable to everyone.

As mentioned before, rules and regulations vary by where you live. Bike shop dealers are very educated when it comes to these rules and regulations relating to electric bike classes. Additionally they should be able to help find you the best electric bike possible. All electric bikes come with a sticker that states what class e-bike it is. If you would like to find a dealer near you with our line of electric bikes, make sure to take a look at our Elite Dealer Locator page.

To learn more about policies and laws and regulations about electric bikes visit peopleforbikes.org