If you exceed 25 km/h with assistance without much effort, your bike may be unbridled.
Can I unbridle an electric bike?
More and more people are opting for an electric bike to get around faster, more sustainably and more comfortably. But what if you want to go even faster? Is it permissible to unbridle an electric bike up to, say, 30 km/h? In this blog, you'll find out all about unbridling electric bikes, the risks involved and the legislation in Belgium.
What is unbridling an electric bike?
Debriding an electric bike means changing the speed limiter. By default, an electric bike assists up to 25 km/h (with the exception of speed pedelecs). By unbuckling it, it is sometimes possible to reach speeds of 30 km/h or more.
The most commonly used methods are :
- Software modification via controller
- Use of tuning chips or dongles
- Handling sensors or magnets
Warning: all these methods have an impact on the bike's operation and legality.
Is it legal to unbridle your electric bike?
In Belgium, too, an unbridled electric bike is no longer considered an "ordinary electric bike". A model capable of speeds of up to 30 km/h falls into the category of speed pedelecs:
- Compulsory insurance
- Registration and helmet use compulsory
- Technical inspection possible
According to an investigation by Het Nieuwsblad, bicycles travelling at 30 km/h without complying with these conditions are regularly detected. This remains illegal.
Dangers of unbridling an electric bike
Although it's tempting to ride faster, unbridling an electric bike involves considerable risks:
- Technical risks: motor or battery overheating, accelerated brake and transmission wear
- Loss of bike warranty
- No insurance coverage in case of accident
- Legal problems in the event of an accident or police check-up
Legal alternatives for driving faster
Would you still like to go faster without breaking the rules? Then consider :
- A speed pedelec can reach 45 km/h with assistance, provided it is approved and insured.
- A lighter, sportier electric bike
- Improve your physical condition and adjust assistance settings (sport or turbo)
Conclusion: prevention is better than cure
Although it is technically possible to unbridle an electric bike up to 30 km/h, this is not legal in Belgium without a new homologation. What's more, there are significant technical and legal risks involved.
Use your electric bike as intended and opt for a legal alternative if speed is a priority for you. The safety, warranty and insurance simply aren't worth the risk.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my bike is unbridled?
Can I return my unbridled bike to its original state?
In many cases, yes. However, damage may already have been done to the software or engine.
What happens in the event of an accident with an unbridled electric bike?
Your insurance won't usually cover you, and you may be held personally liable.