E-bike Legal Checker

Is my e-bike legal in the EU?

In the EU, an electric bicycle is classified as an EPAC (Electrically Power Assisted Cycle) and requires no registration, insurance, or licence if it meets three conditions: maximum continuous motor power of 250W, motor assistance cuts off at 25 km/h, and the motor only assists when pedalling (no throttle-only operation). E-bikes that exceed any of these limits are classified as mopeds (L1e-A) and require registration, insurance, and a driving licence.

What is the maximum motor power for an e-bike in the EU?

Under EN 15194:2017, the maximum continuous rated power for an EPAC (legal e-bike) in the EU is 250 watts. This is the continuous rated output, not peak power. Many e-bike motors can produce 500–700W peak power temporarily during acceleration — this does not make them illegal as long as the continuous rated power does not exceed 250W. Check your motor's specification sheet for the continuous rated power figure.

Is a throttle e-bike legal in the EU?

No. EU law (EN 15194) requires that the motor only provides assistance when the rider is pedalling. A throttle that propels the bike without pedalling classifies the vehicle as a moped regardless of motor power. Throttle e-bikes are legal in the US (as Class 2) and some other markets but not in the EU or UK for road use without registration. Some EU e-bikes have a "walk assist" mode (max 6 km/h) which is legal.

What happens if my e-bike exceeds 25 km/h assistance?

If the motor continues assisting above 25 km/h, the bike is classified as a moped (L1e-A) under EU law. Riding it on public roads without registration, insurance, and the appropriate driving licence (AM category in most EU countries) is illegal. Police can confiscate the vehicle and issue fines. "Speed unlocking" or "derestricting" an e-bike — modifying it to exceed the 25 km/h limit — invalidates the CE certification and voids insurance.

What is EN 15194 certification?

EN 15194:2017 is the European harmonised standard for EPACs (Electrically Power Assisted Cycles). It defines technical requirements and test methods for e-bikes including electrical safety, motor power limits, speed assistance limits, and pedal sensing requirements. E-bikes sold in the EU must carry the CE mark indicating compliance with EN 15194 and other applicable directives. The standard is enforced through market surveillance by national authorities.

Do EU e-bike rules apply in the UK after Brexit?

Yes. The UK retained the same EAPC (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle) rules as the EU after Brexit: maximum 250W continuous power, assistance cut-off at 25 km/h (15.5 mph), and pedal sensing required. The UK uses its own UKCA mark rather than the EU CE mark for newly certified products. Practically, the technical requirements are identical to EN 15194. UK riders face the same restrictions as EU riders.

Are speed pedelecs legal in the EU?

Speed pedelecs — e-bikes with assistance up to 45 km/h and motors up to 500W — are legal in most EU countries but are classified as L1e-B (fast mopeds). They require type approval, registration, insurance, a minimum AM driving licence (equivalent to moped licence), and the rider must wear a helmet. They are not permitted on cycle paths — they must use the road. Rules vary slightly between EU member states.

Can I modify my e-bike to go faster legally?

No. Modifying an e-bike to remove the speed limiter or increase power beyond 250W continuous makes it non-compliant with EN 15194, invalidates the CE certification, voids the manufacturer warranty, and classifies it as an unregistered moped — illegal to ride on public roads. If you need higher speed, a speed pedelec (L1e-B) is the legal route, which requires registration and a driving licence.