Understanding e-bike classes: Class 2 vs Class 3 e-bikes explained

E-bike classes are the government's way of organizing electric bikes into handy categories that sort e-bikes based on what they can do. In the U.S. there are three main classes—Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3—and these categories let you know where you can ride your e-bike, how fast it can go, and what rules you need to follow to stay safe and within the rules.

Knowing more about the three classes will help you stay on the right side of the law and pick an e-bike that suits your needs. No matter which class you choose, they all stick to the same power limit: 1 horsepower (or 750 watts) for the motor. Here's the breakdown:

Class 1 e-bikes are all about pedal power with a boost. You've got to pedal to get the motor going, and their top speed is 20 mph.

Class 2 e-bikes give you more options. Like Class 1, their max speed with pedal assist is 20 mph, but they also come with a throttle so you can cruise without pedaling at all up to 20 mph.

What is a Class 3 e-bike then? They have the fastest top speed: they can reach 28 mph with pedal assist, making them great for longer commutes. If they have a throttle, their top speed is limited to 20 mph. On these faster class 3 e-bikes you'll need a speedometer.

A class 2 e-bike is a super-versatile option, perfect for riders who want the options of pedal assist and throttle at their fingertips; pedal or throttle power whenever you fancy appeals to lots of riders.

Featuring pedal assistance up to 20 mph means the motor starts the minute you start pedalling, offering support and multiplying your effort so you can tackle hills and headwinds even if you’ve had a tiring day. But a class 2 e-bike doesn’t just have pedal assist, it also has a throttle, which you can use without pedaling—like a motorbike—with just a twist or press of the handlebar. It’s the definition of effortless cruising and is also handy for stop-starts in traffic, too.

Whatever mode you’re enjoying on your class 2 e-bike, the max speed you’re allowed to go is 20 mph, which feels safe when you’re riding, and you can keep up with traffic, both in and out of a bike lane. Class 2 e-bikes are also widely permitted on bike paths and trails where other motorized vehicles are allowed.

With class 2 e-bikes the requirement to wear a helmet varies by state, so it’s best to check your state’s helmet bike laws. Even if there’s no legal requirement to do in your state, we’d always recommend wearing one for your safety.

Before you buy a class 2 e-bike check if your region has a restriction on throttle use, as some states have these on certain trails or bike paths, which could derail your plans to ride in throttle mode there.

Class 3 e-bikes are the speedsters of the e-bike world, built for riders who want to get where they’re going fast. They’re ideal for commuters who need to cover longer distances, and those of us who like a little more power from our pedals.

The main difference between class 3 and class 2 e-bikes is class 3s’ top speed, which is 28 mph with pedal assistance—compared to just 20 mph for a class 2. An extra 8 mph doesn’t sound huge but when you’ve got distance to cover and you’re against the clock, it really matters.

Because class 3 e-bikes go faster they’re required to have a speedometer by law, so you can keep track of your speed and ride safely.

Class 3 e-bikes are often considered a commuter’s dream because a higher top speed means you can cover ground more quickly. If you’ve got a lengthy commute, upwards of 10 miles, then a class 3 e-bike is a game changer, upgrading your commute from a tiring sweat-fest to a care-free one.

Because the motor assistance on class 3 e-bikes is typically more sophisticated, you’ll enjoy even smoother, more powerful support, which makes your ride feel even better!

These e-bikes come with the same restrictions as class 2 e-bikes, so be sure to check your local regulations as many regions restrict (and sometimes prohibit) throttle use on certain trails and paths, even if it’s legally classified as a class 3.

Choosing between a class 2 and a class 3 e-bike really comes down to what you want—and need—from your e-bike and riding. There are pros to both types and understanding their differences is key to choosing the perfect e-bike to suit you.

Class 2 e-bikes are a great all rounder, offering easy, accessible riding to everyone. With its throttle putting effortless riding at everyone’s fingertips, you don’t even need to pedal to tackle a steep hill or get away at the lights. A throttle can also be handy if you have mobility issues, joint problems or injuries—you can still get out on your bike but with a powerful throttle behind you if you need it.

A throttle makes them ideal for stop-go city traffic but also for weekend exploring, so you just sit back and enjoy the ride without breaking a sweat. And when it comes to more leisurely rides, a class 2 e-bike is a wise choice as it has fewer legal restrictions on trails and bike paths.

If speed and efficiency are your priorities, class 3 e-bikes are for you. The extra 8 mph (with pedal assist) puts you at the same pace as traffic, making them a commuter’s dream. You can significantly cut your commuting time down and still get a sweat-free workout in, as the pedal assist encourages you to still stay active but it’s able to cover more ground in less time, with less effort.

With greater speed comes more responsibilities as a rider, so you’ll need to be happy wearing a helmet and be sure to check path and trail restrictions in the areas you want to ride in—before you buy.