The fastest electric bikes of 2025
The fastest e-bikes, known as speed pedelecs, offer assistance at speeds of up to 45 km/h and are winning over more and more time-saving commuters. Models like the Stromer ST7, Gazelle No.1 Speed and Riese & Müller Supercharger HS combine power, comfort and intelligent technology. In the Netherlands and Belgium, specific rules apply (helmet, registration, insurance). Arefurbished speed pedelec from Upway is often the most durable and economical choice, with a quality warranty of up to 1 year.
Written by: Hanna Stevens | October 30, 2025 | Reading time: 6 minutes
More about the author: Hanna Stevens
Hanna is an avid cyclist who loves exploring new routes and sharing her experiences to inspire others to get on their bikes more often.
Key findings
- Speed pedelecs reach 45 km/h and are ideal for longer commutes.
- Models like the Stromer ST7 and Gazelle No.1 combine power, comfort and technology, but require a helmet and insurance.
- With a refurbished model from Upway, you'll be riding durably, reliably and much more economically.
Table of contents
Why do people choose fast e-bikes?
What makes an electric bike "fast"?
Legislation in Belgium and the Netherlands (2025 update)
The fastest electric bikes of 2025
What surprised us during testing
Who should consider a speed pedelec (and who shouldn't)
Why arefurbished speed pedelec from Upway is the best choice
Next steps: how to choose your fast e-bike
Why do people choose fast e-bikes?
Fast electric bikes are no longer a niche market. More and more commuters are swapping their car or train pass for a speed pedelec.
With assistance of up to 45 km/h, you can often get to work faster than by car, especially at rush hour.
The ecological aspect also plays a major role: an electric bike emits up to 90% less CO₂ than a car (source: European Commission, 2024).
At Upway, buyers are increasingly turning to reconditioned models: affordable, reliable and environmentally friendly.
"A daily journey of 20 km saves around 400 kg of CO₂ per year," explains Pieter, Upway technician in Antwerp.
What makes an electric bike "fast"?
Speed depends on many factors, not just the motor.
| Features | Meaning | Impact on speed |
|---|---|---|
| Motor power (Watt) | Energy delivered by the motor | More watts = more powerful assistance |
| Torque (Nm) | Tractive force on acceleration | More Nm = faster starting |
| Battery (Wh) | Energy capacity | More Wh = greater autonomy |
| Weight (kg) | Total weight of bike and battery | Lighter = easier to handle |
| tires and posture | Resistance and aerodynamics | fine tires = higher maximum speed |
A speed pedelec is defined by law as a bicycle offering assistance at speeds of up to 45 km/h.
Beyond that point, the motor cuts out automatically. More power and torque = faster acceleration, but also greater battery life and weight.
Legislation in Belgium and the Netherlands (2025 update)
Belgium
- Helmet mandatory (EN1078 standard specific to speed pedelec)
- AM license required
- Compulsory license plate and insurance
- Class B traffic on the roadway or bicycle path, depending on the situation
Netherlands
- Helmet mandatory since 2023 (NTA-8776 standard)
- AM license required
- Compulsory registration and liability insurance
- Must ride on the roadway, not the bike path
Always check local rules via overheid.nl or mobilit.belgium.be.
The fastest electric bikes of 2025
| Model | Country | Max. speed | Engine | Battery | Couple | Autonomy | Price new | refurbished Upway) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stromer ST7 | Switzerland | 45 km/h | 940 W | 1440 Wh | 52 Nm | 260 km | € 12 000 | € 8 900 |
| Stromer ST2 Pinion | Switzerland | 45 km/h | 750 W | 983 Wh | 40 Nm | 180 km | € 7 990 | € 5 500 |
| Gazelle No.1 Speed | Netherlands | 45 km/h | Bosch Performance Line Speed | 750 Wh | 85 Nm | 100 km | € 6 499 | € 4 600 |
| Riese & Müller Supercharger GT Rohloff HS | Germany | 45 km/h | Bosch Performance Speed | 1125 Wh | 85 Nm | 160 km | € 9 000 | € 6 800 |
(Sources: Stromer.com, Gazelle.nl, Riese-und-Mueller.com, Cowboy.com - 2025)
What surprised us during testing
Stromer ST7
Swiss precision is immediately apparent. The Pinion hub shifts gears smoothly, and the 1440 Wh battery is exceptionally powerful.
Feel: more like an electric motorcycle than a bicycle.
Disadvantage: its 33 kg make it heavy to handle.
For whom: commuters travelling more than 30 km a day.
Gazelle No.1 Speed
Gazelle's first speed pedelec designed entirely in-house. The Bosch motor (85 Nm) delivers impressive acceleration, especially at red lights.
Sensation: remarkable comfort and stability.
For whom: those who want speed without a sporty stance.
Riese & Müller Supercharger GT Rohloff HS
Genuine German machine with dual batteries (1125 Wh) and maximum torque of 85 Nm.
Sensation: perfect stability at 45 km/h, even when loaded.
For whom: quality-conscious heavy riders.
Who should consider a speed pedelec (and who shouldn't)
Suitable for :
- Daily commuters (15-60 km/day)
- Those who want to save time compared to driving or using public transport
- Sporting or ecological users
- Companies offering bike leasing programs
Not suitable for :
- Very short urban journeys (< 5 km)
- People without helmets or licenses
- Those who do not wish to take out insurance
- Those who prefer a lightweight, foldable bike
Why arefurbished speed pedelec from Upway is the best choice
Every Upway bike passes more than 20 quality controls carried out by certified technicians:
component inspection, battery test, engine check and software update.
All reconditioned models include :
- Up to 1 year warranty
- 14-day free return policy
- 30 to 60% less expensive than a new
- 350 kg of CO₂ saved on average per bicycle
"Many customers say they see almost no difference with a new bike," says an Upway technician in Mechelen.
refurbished doesn't mean "second hand", it means completely new and tested - the most sustainable way of acquiring a fast bike.
Next steps: how to choose your fast e-bike
- Determine your distance: Less than 10 km? A classic e-bike is all you need. More than 15 km? Choose a speed pedelec.
- Compare torque (Nm): More Nm = sharper acceleration.
- Check the legislation: Helmet, license and insurance mandatory above 45 km/h.
- Choose a refurbished model: Filter by Speed Pedelec on Upway.co.uk or Upway.be.
- Plan a test drive: Nothing beats a real-life experience to feel the difference in comfort and speed.
FAQ
What's the difference between an e-bike and a speed pedelec ?
A classic e-bike supports speeds of up to 25 km/h, a speed pedelec up to 45 km/h. The latter is legally considered a moped.
What is the speed limit in Belgium and the Netherlands?
The motor can assist up to 45 km/h. Beyond that, only your own pedaling power counts.
Is a helmet compulsory?
Yes, in both countries. Belgium accepts EN1078 helmets, while the Netherlands requires NTA-8776.
Do I need a permit?
Yes, an AM license is sufficient in both Belgium and the Netherlands.
Which model has the longest range?
The Stromer ST7 with its 1440 Wh battery, up to 260 km per charge (source: Stromer.com).