Are you an e-bike enthusiast and looking forward to taking your e-bike to the roads of Europe? Before you head out, make sure you comply with European e-bike law. If you know the laws, you can easily continue driving without any stress from getting a fine.

The guide below provides detailed insight into the e-bike legislation that applies in Europe and in different cities. So let’s read below and learn more about it.

part of the bicycle on the road
Two main categories of E-bikes
Before we get into the details of the e-bike rules, let’s take a closer look at the two main categories of e-bikes .

1. Electric bicycles with pedal assistance
Electric bicycles with pedal assistance are equipped with pedal assistance. They have a motor that starts when the pedals are activated and help the cyclist ride the e-bike. No insurance or road tax is required for this type of e-bike.

2. Electric mopeds
Electric mopeds, on the other hand, are self-driving e-bikes; they have a motor that works when the bicycle pedals are not moving. This type of category requires payment of insurance and road tax, followed by a license plate.

The two types of electric mopeds are presented below.

Pedelec: Pedelec are e-bikes, also called Pedal Electric Assisted Cycles. They have a constant power of 250 watts and a speed limit of 25 km/h.
S-Pedelec: S-Pedelec, on the other hand, is known as speed pedelec e-bikes that offer pedal assistance. These e-bikes do not switch off the motor when they reach a maximum speed of 25 km/h; they are more likely to do this when they reach a speed of 45 km/h. For these e-bikes, you must fulfill the condition of wearing a helmet and also have a registered driver’s license, followed by tax and insurance payments.
Types of E-bikes that are publicly allowed on European roads
In European countries there are certain regulations for electric bicycles that must be adhered to, and some of these, which help decide which e-bikes can be ridden on European roads, are as follows:

The motor speed must not exceed 250W.
The electric motor must also be functional up to a speed of 25 km/h.
The motor must stop when the cyclist stops pedaling.
Helmet and age requirements
In European countries, the obligation to wear a helmet is not part of the law on electric bicycles for pedelec drivers. Although not required, it is recommended as it helps protect against head injuries.

In addition, the age limit is also very important to take into account when cycling. The lower power bicycles, which have a motor power of less than 250 W, require a minimum age of 14 to 15 years in most cities; however, in Belgium and Switzerland this is more than 16.

2 cyclists are standing by the river
Regulations for electric bicycles in various European countries
Different European countries have different legislation for electric bicycles, and some of these are shared below.

1. E-bike laws in Austria
The e-bike law for Austria includes the following conditions:

The maximum speed is 25 km/h and the drive power is 600 watts.
The motor of the e-bike may only switch on when the pedals are pressed.
If possible, the driver should use the cycle path.
Trailers can be used to transport children.
Until and unless a bicycle license is purchased, the minimum age for riding an e-bike is 12 years.
The helmet is recommended, but not mandatory.
The e-bike must have an EU declaration followed by a CE marking.
The limit for alcohol consumption is 0.8.
2. Electric bicycle laws in Belgium
The regulations for e-bikes in Belgium are quite relaxed. They allow three types of e-bikes.

The 250W e-bikes with a speed limit of up to 25 km/h are suitable for all age groups without compulsory helmets.
The 1000W e-bikes with a speed limit of 25 km/h are known as the motorized bicycles with an age limit of at least 16 years, followed by a certificate of conformity. No helmet is required.
The 4000W e-bikes are known as speed pedelecs and riders of these bikes must adhere to moped regulations.
3. E-bike laws in France
There are three types of primary rules that are essential to follow for e-bike riders, and they are as follows:

The power of the e-bike may not exceed 250 watts; Once the e-bike exceeds the speed limit, it is labeled as a speed bike.
The pedal assistance must have a switch off above 25 km/h.
The pedal assistance may only work when the cyclist is pedaling and when pedaling stops, the pedal assistance must also be switched off.
The legislation on electric bicycles in France is very strict and failure to comply will result in severe penalties.
4. Electric bicycle laws in Germany
The e-bike laws in Germany require the following conditions to be met.

The motor support works while pedaling and the speed does not exceed 25 km/h.
The electric bicycles sold in the EU require the EU declaration and also the CE marking.
The minimum age for a rider is 15 years.
Bike path
EU required e-bike certifications
It is very important that the rights and interests of the consumers are safeguarded, and for this, e-bikes must comply with certifications such as RoHS, CE, FCC, etc. The CE certification is a mandatory requirement and helps in meeting the health , safety and environmental protection requirements. requirements.

Customs in European countries check the CE certifications when the e-bikes are transported, as bicycles without them are not allowed to be sold on the market.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the speed limit on e-bikes in Europe?

Ant. The maximum speed on e-bikes in Europe is 25 km/h.

2. Are electric bicycles legal in France?

Ant. Yes, e-bikes are legal in France, but the rules and regulations regarding e-bikes must be followed according to the laws that apply here.

3. What is EU law in en15194?

Ant. EU legislation EN15194 provides a standard for assessing electric bicycles of the type that fall under the health and safety criteria.

4. Are 1000 watt e-bikes legal in Canada?

Ant. No, bicycles with a power of up to 500 watts are only legal in Canada.

5. What is the ECA EU law?

Ant. The ECA provides a primary legislative instrument in which Britain fulfills its EU treaty obligations to bring EU law into force.

6. What is the EU’s zero emissions policy?

Ant. The EU’s zero emissions policy emphasizes that the commission wants to ‘achieve zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050’.

7. What is the EU Type C legislation?

Ant. The EU Type C law stipulates that any device capable of wired charging must have a USB-C port, making it eligible for sale within European regions.

Conclusion
The importance of following the e-bike law in European countries cannot be denied, and it is very important to stay familiar with it. Understanding e-bike legislation is critical to ensuring you stay compliant and safe while riding. Therefore, the above guide can help you learn more about these laws and provide detailed insights into the legality of electric bicycles. If you’re looking for e-bikes that are eligible for use in Europe with a CE mark, you might want to consider Engwe ‘s ones . Staying informed about e-bikes and the legislation will help you make better choices and enjoy a worry-free riding experience across Europe.