Don't get stuck with the wrong bike. Here is everything you need to know about speed limits, throttles, and trail access.
Buying an electric bike can feel like learning a new language. You see terms like "Class 2," "Pedal Assist," and "Throttle-on-Demand" thrown around, but what do they actually mean for your daily ride?
As your local e-bike experts, we get asked this question every day. The answer is important because the "Class" of your e-bike determines two things:
- How fast you can go.
- Where you are legally allowed to ride.
Here is the simple breakdown of the three e-bike classes to help you choose the perfect model.
The 3 E-Bike Classes at a Glance
| Class | Max Speed | Throttle? | Where to Ride? |
| Class 1 | 20 mph | No | Bike paths, lanes, & most trails. |
| Class 2 | 20 mph | Yes | Streets, lanes, & some paths. |
| Class 3 | 28 mph | No (usually) | Streets & bike lanes (Commuting). |
Class 1: The "Pure" Cyclist's Choice
Top Speed: 20 mph (Pedal Assist Only)
Best For: Exercise, trails, and first-time riders.
Class 1 e-bikes are the most "bicycle-like" experience. The motor only kicks in when you are pedaling. Because there is no throttle, these bikes are legal on almost all paved bike paths and even many mountain bike trails where other e-bikes are banned.
- Why choose it? If you want to sweat a little and feel like you have "bionic legs," this is for you. It preserves the fitness aspect of cycling while flattening out the hills.
Class 2: The Commuter's Favorite (Throttle Assisted)
Top Speed: 20 mph
Best For: Grocery runs, arriving without sweat, and stop-and-go city traffic.
Class 2 is the most popular category in the US. These bikes have a throttle (usually a thumb lever). This means you can stop pedaling entirely and let the bike do 100% of the work, just like a scooter.
- Why choose it? The throttle is a lifesaver at intersections. You can zoom away from a dead stop without wobbling while you try to clip in your pedals or get your balance.
Class 3: The Speed Demon
Top Speed: 28 mph
Best For: Long-distance commuting and replacing your car.
If you have a 10+ mile commute, Class 3 is the game changer. The motor assists you up to 28 mph, allowing you to keep up with city traffic more safely.
- Why choose it? That extra 8mph cuts significant time off your commute.
- Important Note: Class 3 bikes are generally not allowed on multi-use paths (like the local park trail) because 28mph is too fast for pedestrians.
Can a bike be more than one Class?
Yes! Many modern e-bikes are now "configurable." They often ship as a Class 2 (capped at 20mph) to ensure they are legal in the most places possible out of the box.
However, via the manufacturer's app or display settings, you can often "unlock" them to Class 3 speeds (28mph) if your local laws allow it. This gives you two bikes in one: a legal path cruiser for the weekend and a high-speed commuter for the work week.
Which Class Should I Buy?
- Ride strictly on mountain trails? Stick to Class 1 to ensure trail access.<
- Want to cruise without pedaling? Go Class 2 for that throttle convenience.
- Need to get to work fast? Look for a Class 3 capable bike to shave minutes off your ride.
Still Confused? Come Test Ride All 3.
Reading about top speeds is one thing; feeling the difference between 20mph and 28mph is another.
Stop by one of our showrooms this week. We have Class 1, 2, and 3 bikes charged up and ready for you to test ride. We’ll help you find the one that fits your commute—and the law.
