Ebike Classes: The Difference Between Class 1, 2, & 3

What are electric bike classes? Simply put, they differentiate between the top speeds an ebike can go, and the componentry involved.

Choosing between ebike classes 1, 2, 3 could be a little difficult if you’re not exactly sure what the differences are between each class or what your desired use case is. Luckily for you, we at Aventon strive to keep you educated and help you along the way with choosing the type of electric bike that best fits your lifestyle.

Here’s what we’ll be discussing in this blog:

• Ebike Regulations
• Three Classes of Ebikes

Federal Ebike Regulations

There are many different factors, as mentioned before, a new ebike rider should take into consideration when purchasing the best electric bike for them. Most importantly, which type of ebike you’re looking for, and if you’re able to ride it where you live. While most states have adopted the 3 tier classification of ebikes, there are still others that haven’t.

Many regulations have been put in place since ebikes started entering the market. By now we know that electric bikes are here to stay for good. They have changed the biking industry in a tremendous way. 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.

Check out our blog ‘Understanding Electric Bicycle Laws By State: The Ultimate Guide’ to learn more.

The Three Classes Of Ebikes

By learning about the different class of ebikes, you will get a better understanding of how they can benefit you, where you can ride them, and the best use case for you. In addition, knowing this information gives a better glimpse into the types of ebikes you can find on the market, as well as ebike options available to you.

Let’s take a look.

Class 1 Ebikes

What is a class 1 electric bike? Class 1 ebike definition is having a maximum speed of 20 MPH and is equipped with an electric 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 ebike.

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 up, ebikes are classified as class one ebikes when they have pedal assist only and tops out at 20 mph. This means there is no throttle on the bike.

What are the best class 1 electric bikes? Whichever feels most comfortable for you, has all the features you need to enjoy your ride, and brings a smile to your face everytime you roll.

Class 2 Ebikes

What is a class 2 electric bike? A class 2 e bike provides assistance when pedaling and has a maximum speed of 20 mph with a throttle.

What is a throttle, and how does it work? A throttle is a feature ebikes have that come in a grip-twist or button that you hold down to make the bike ride without pedaling.

Aventon's electric bikes have a safety feature that requires you to place the pedal assist to level 1 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 28 mph on pedal assist, as does the Aventon Aventure, a 4” fat tire ebike for off-road and adventurous bike rides. A type 2 e bike is capable of riding in most places you would ride a traditional bike.

Class 3 Ebikes

What is 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’re restricted from certain bike trails and bike paths.

What makes Aventon’s electric bikes unique is that they feature both pedal assist and throttle. We build high quality products that are accessible for all people which is why we wanted to make sure our electric bikes are obtainable to everyone.

Find Your Class

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 for you. All electric bikes come with a sticker that states what class ebike it is. If you'd like to find a dealer near you with our line of electric bikes, check out our dealer locator.

To learn more about the latest news in the ebike world visit our pals at peopleforbikes.org.