Electric bikes are categorized into three classes: Class 1 provides pedal assist up to 20 mph, Class 2 adds a throttle function also capped at 20 mph, and Class 3 offers pedal assist up to 28 mph without throttle. These classes help regulate where and how e-bikes can be used.

You can conquer huge hills on electric bikes, get sweat-free to work, and open up possibilities for people who never imagined they'd be able to ride again.
Electric bikes are also extremely diverse. Of course, there are e-bikes for every lifestyle, but if you dig a little deeper, you'll find that different countries classify bikes differently.
Electric bikes are classified by the U.S. bicycle industry into three separate categories: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3.
But this isn't like airline seating, where first class means you'll get more perks. Here's what different classes of ebikes really mean.

What is the difference between the three?

Class 1 e-bikes offer pedal assist only, up to 20 mph. Class 2 e-bikes include a throttle for no-pedal riding, also up to 20 mph. Class 3 e-bikes provide pedal assist up to 28 mph, with no throttle, and are often restricted from bike paths due to higher speeds.

Class 1: A bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider pedals, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bike reaches 20 mph.

Class 2: A bicycle equipped with a motor that can be used only to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph.


Class 3: Bicycles equipped with motors that provide assistance only when the rider pedals, and that stop providing assistance once the bicycle reaches 28 mph, and equipped with speedometers.