Yes, for urban driving and flat terrain, 250 W is more than enough. For more power, look especially at the torque (e.g. 60-85 Nm).
How many watts do you need for an electric bike?
When you're looking to buy an electric bike, you quickly come across terms like watt, torque (Nm) and battery (Wh). But what do they really mean? And how many watts are "enough" for an e-bike? In this article, we explain everything clearly, so you can make the right choice.
What does watt mean for an e-bike?
The power of an electric bike motor is expressed in watts (W). This indicates the amount of energy the motor can deliver. The higher the number of watts, the more powerful the motor is to assist you while pedaling.
In Europe, legal rules apply:
- Classic electric bike (≤ 25 km/h): maximum authorized power 250 watts.
- Speed pedelec (≤ 45 km/h): motors of more than 250 watts, often between 350 and 500 watts, are authorized, but fall under moped regulations (helmet, license plate, insurance).
For most urban and trekking bikes, 250 watts is therefore the norm.
Watt vs. Newton-meter (torque)
Many people think that higher wattage is automatically better, but this is not entirely true. When it comes to pedaling assistance, it's torque (Nm) that counts: it indicates the pulling force the motor delivers.
- 30-40 Nm: sufficient for flat roads and light assistance.
- 50-65 Nm: ideal for hilly terrain or heavier riders.
- 70-85 Nm: perfect for mountaineering, sports use or heavy loads.
In short: watts indicate the energy the motor can deliver, but torque determines how much of this energy is felt in power.
Which wattage is right for you?
Here are a few guidelines, depending on use:
- City bike/racing: 250 W, 40-50 Nm are more than enough.
- Leisure + hills: 250 W with at least 60 Nm recommended.
- Mountain or heavy load: 250 W with 75-85 Nm offer maximum comfort.
- Speed pedelec (up to 45 km/h): usually 350-500 W, always with helmet and registration.
Popular engines
At Upway, you'll find a variety of reconditioned electric bikes with different motors:
- Bosch Active Line Plus: 250 W, 50 Nm → ideal for urban use.
- Shimano Steps E6100: 250 W, 60 Nm → perfect for daily commuting.
- Bosch Performance CX: 250 W, 85 Nm → powerful for sports and mountain use.
- Bafang M400: 250 W, 80 Nm → reliable and robust for long outings.
Conclusion
For a conventional electric bike, 250 watts is more than enough, as this is also the legal limit. The difference in riding experience lies not so much in wattage as in torque (Nm) and battery capacity. So choose a motor to suit your riding style: city, hilly or long-distance.
Frequently asked questions
Is 250 watts enough for an electric bike?
How many watts for a speed pedelec ?
A speed pedelec generally has 350-500 W. These bikes fall into the moped category and require helmet, license plate and insurance.
Which is more important: watt or Nm?
For everyday use, the Nm is more important, as it determines the pulling force. The wattage indicates only the motor's total power.
Can I buy an e-bike with more than 250 watts?
Yes, but then it's a speed pedelec. In this case, stricter rules apply.