For classic e-bikes with assistance up to 25 km/h, there are no strict rules, but the recommended age is 12 and over, depending on motor power and bike weight.
Electric bikes for children ? All you need to know
Riding an electric bike as a child or teenager is an exciting experience. The speed, the freedom to discover new places and the sense of adventure make it very attractive. But not all electric bikes are suitable for young cyclists.
Choosing a safe and suitable electric bike is essential. Here's what to look out for, and which models are best for children and teenagers.
What to look out for when choosing an e-bike for children?
When choosing an electric bike for a child or teenager, keep the following points in mind:
- Lightweight frame: A lightweight electric bike is easier to maneuver. Choose a model weighing less than 23 kg (including battery).
- Pedaling assistance only (no gas pedal): This encourages healthy physical activity and enhances fitness and muscle strength.
- Minimum age: For speed pedelecs, the minimum legal age is 16.
Recommended electric bikes for children and teenagers
Knaap LAX
Fatbikes are extremely popular with teenagers and young people.
Warning: fatbikes are often heavier, which may make them less suitable for pre-teens or young teenagers.
Features :
- Weight: 32 kg
- Battery: 470 Wh
- Engine : Ananda
- Speeds: 8
- Benefit: Easy access and comfortable seating position
Electra Townie Go! Step-Thru
Lightweight aluminum frame with low entry, ideal for young teenagers.
- Weight: 25 kg
- Battery: 500 Wh
- Engine: Bosch central engine
- Speeds: 7
- Advantage: Flat Foot technology = safe, stable stopping
Cannondale Trail Neo 2
Perfect for teens who want to go off-road.
- Weight: 22 kg
- Battery: 625 Wh
- Engine: Performance Line (mid-mounted)
- Speeds: 10
- Benefit: Ideal for rough terrain
Brompton Electric Type H
The ultimate urban electric bike for kids.
- Weight: 16 kg (folding)
- Battery: 312 Wh
- Motor: Brompton front wheel motor
- Speeds: 6
- Benefit: Perfect for public transport and small spaces
Specialized Turbo Combo 5.0
Lightweight, high-performance bike for older, more experienced teens.
- Weight: 21 kg
- Battery: 600 Wh
- Motor: Central motor
- Speeds: 11
- Benefit: Control via Mission Control application
Summary: electric bikes for kids
| Model | Battery and Motor | Additional features |
|---|---|---|
| Knaap LAX | 470 Wh, Ananda | Comfortable saddle, easy access |
| Electra Townie Go! Step-Thru | 500 Wh, Bosch central motor | Flat Foot Technology for safe stopping |
| Cannondale Trail Neo 2 | 625 Wh, Performance Line (central) | Ideal for off-road use |
| Brompton Electric Type H | 312 Wh, Brompton front wheel motor | Foldable, perfect for public transport |
| Specialized Turbo Combo 5.0 | 600 Wh, Specialized motor centra | Mission Control application for customized settings |
Introduce your child to electric bikes with Upway
Give your child a safe and fun first e-bike experience with Upway :
- Affordable refurbished models
- Ideal for first-time electric bike riders
Frequently asked questions
From what age can a child ride an electric bike?
Is a helmet mandatory for a child's electric bike?
For standard e-bikes (25 km/h max), helmets are not compulsory, but are strongly recommended, especially for children and teenagers, at high speeds or in heavy traffic.
What is the range of a child's electric bike?
This depends on battery capacity, total weight (bike + rider) and type of terrain. On average, children's e-bikes have a range of 40 to 80 km with a 400 to 500 Wh battery.