The fastest electric bikes of 2025
The fastest e-bikes, known as speed pedelecs, offer assistance up to 45 km/h and are attracting more and more commuters looking to save time. Models such as the Stromer ST7, the Gazelle No.1 Speed, and the Riese & Müller Supercharger HS combine power, comfort, and smart technology. In the Netherlands and Belgium, specific regulations apply (Helmet, registration, insurance). A speed pedelec refurbished from Upway is often the most sustainable and economical choice, with a quality guarantee of up to one 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 such as the Stromer ST7 and the 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 Required (specific EN 1078 standard: 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 a Helmet or license
- 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 regulations: Helmet; a license and insurance are required for speeds over 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 the " Helmet " mandatory?
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).