On average, about 5-7 km/h faster. Where a conventional bike often travels at 15 km/h, an e-bike easily reaches 20-22 km/h.
What is the average speed of an electric bike?
The short answer: it depends on the type of e-bike, the way you use pedal assistance, and traffic conditions. Let's take a look at the different types of e-bikes, their legal limits and what you can really expect in practice.
What does the law say about the speed of electric bikes?
In Europe, the rules are clear:
- Standard electric bike (city bike, folding bike, electric MTB , cargo bike): pedaling assistance up to 25 km/h. You can go faster, but only by leg power.
- Speed pedelec : assistance up to 45 km/h. Helmet, license plate and insurance compulsory, and often use the road instead of the cycle path.
- E-bikes with gas pedal (without pedaling): rarer in Belgium and the Netherlands, and classified in a specific category.
The engine always cuts out above 25 or 45 km/h. In practice, most cyclists ride a little slower, as traffic, road conditions and wind have a strong influence on speed.
Also read: Average cycling speed
Average speed of an electric city bike
The electric city bike is by far the most popular model, especially for commuting and shopping.
- Legal maximum: 25 km/h
- In practice: generally 20-23 km/h
Why not always 25 km/h? Red lights, reduced assistance mode to save battery power, comfort and safety sometimes take precedence over speed. According to Gazelle, the average speed in town is around 21 km/h.
How fast can you go with an electric MTB (e-MTB)?
Designed for off-road riding, the electricMTB favors power and control over pure speed.
- Legal maximum: 25 km/h
- In practice: generally 18-22 km/h
On flat ground, you can reach around 23 km/h, but on difficult climbs the speed drops quickly to 12-15 km/h. The type of engine and your riding style make a big difference.
How fast can an electric folding bike go?
Ideal for combining train and bike.
- Legal maximum: 25 km/h
- In practice: generally 18-21 km/h
The small wheels and compact structure give a feeling of less stability above 20 km/h, which reduces the average speed. 12GoBiking tests show that most models ride comfortably at around 19 km/h.
How fast can I go with a speed pedelec ?
If speed is your priority, the speed pedelec is the clear favorite.
- Legal maximum: 45 km/h
- In practice: around 30-35 km/h
Reaching 45 km/h is possible, but requires maximum effort in turbo mode, which is not always suitable for dense traffic. According to Het Zwartefietsenplan, most users drive at around 32 km/h - perfect for longer commutes.
How fast can an electric cargo bike go?
Very popular with families and delivery services.
- Legal maximum: 25 km/h
- In practice: generally 17-21 km/h
With children and shopping on board, the higher weight brings the average speed down to 18 km/h. For reasons of stability and safety, manufacturers also voluntarily limit assistance.
Factors that influence your speed
In addition to the type of bike, several other conditions play a role:
- Battery: low charge = less assistance.
- Weather: headwind = -3 to -5 km/h.
- Surface: asphalt is much faster than paving stones or sand.
- tires : the right pressure can save up to 10%.
- Driving style: the stronger the assistance, the faster you go - but the battery also drains faster.
Summary table: average speed by e-bike type
| Type of e-bike | Legal maximum | Speed in practice |
|---|---|---|
| City bike | 25 km/h | 20 - 23 km/h |
| Electric MTB (e-MTB) | 25 km/h | 18 - 22 km/h |
| Folding bikes | 25 km/h | 18 - 21 km/h |
| Speed pedelec | 40 km/h | 30 - 35 km/h |
| Cargo bike | 25 km/h | 17 - 21 km/h |
Conclusion
Average speed on an electric bike depends mainly on the type of bike and the conditions. A city bike or folding bike is generally around 20 km/h. Off-road with an MTB or cargo bike, it's a little less. The only bike that stands out from the crowd is the speed pedelec, which easily exceeds 30 km/h.
The theoretical maximum speed is not the actual speed. Traffic, safety and comfort are just as important as engine power.
Frequently asked questions
How much faster is an electric bike than a conventional bike?
Isn't 25 km/h too fast in town?
It all depends on the traffic. On wide, calm tracks, no problem. On busy routes, it's best to slow down a little.
Is it still possible to ride an electric bike on a cycle path?
Yes, with a standard electric bike (25 km/h). With a speed pedelec (45 km/h), in Belgium you generally have to use the roadway.
Can the speed limiter be removed?
Technically yes, but it's illegal and above all dangerous. In this case, your bike is considered a moped.
What is the ideal speed for the battery?
Around 20 km/h in intermediate assistance mode. This consumes the least energy and extends the life of your battery.