How Fast Can Electric Bikes Really Go?

Electric bikes (e-bikes) can be lifesavers when getting around town. Riding one makes riding faster, simpler, and far less sweaty - perfect if cycling to work daily is part of your commute!

These bikes provide a power boost but still require pedaling, so you're not totally off the hook when it comes to burning calories and keeping your heart in good health while enjoying an easier and smoother ride.

How Fast Can Electric Bikes Go?

Please don't get too carried away thinking you can ride an e-bike unrestrained by speed limits imposed by law; they have built-in speed limiters that kick in automatically to keep your speed under control.

If you’re on the fence about splurging on an e-bike and curious about how fast you can actually go, keep reading. We’ll dive into the speed limits, motor capabilities, and the fastest e-bikes out there to help you decide if it’s worth the investment.

E-Bike Speed Limits in the USA

E-bikes sold in the U.S. come with various speed limits based on their class:

• Class 1 E-Bikes: These are pedal-assist bikes where the motor stops assisting when the bike reaches 20 mph.

• Class 2 E-Bikes: These bikes have a throttle and can also assist up to 20 mph.

• Class 3 E-Bikes: These are pedal-assist bikes but can assist up to 28 mph.

For more detailed information about the electric bicycle category, please check out our electric bicycle category article.

What is the Speed Difference Between an Electric Bike and a Regular Bicycle?

Regular bike speeds depend on how quickly the rider can pedal; typically, this averages around 12 mph for most people. E-bikes, however, can reach over 50 mph if legal restrictions permit; unfortunately, such speeds are illegal on public roads.

Beginners on traditional bikes typically average 12 mph, while more experienced riders can sustain 20-24 mph speeds. On roads in the U.S., electric bicycles are limited to 20-28 mph, while their speed potential depends on motor power.

An e-bike allows you to maintain higher speeds without tiring easily, though it cannot exceed pedaling a traditional bicycle's maximum motor limit.

For example, the commuter electric bicycles or mountain electric bicycles launched by Macfox can reach a speed of 28MPH per hour.

Read more: Do Electric Bikes Need a License? View Individual State Cases

Comparing E-Bikes to Traditional Bikes

Electric bikes (e-bikes) offer many benefits for riders who commute, transport goods, or want a smoother ride than regular bikes.

How Fast Does a 250W Electric Bike Go?

A 250W e-bike can reach 20 miles per hour on level ground - ideal for city commuting!

How Fast Does a 500W Electric Bike Go?

A 500W e-bike can reach 25 miles per hour on flat terrain, offering an ideal mix of power and speed.

How Fast Does a 750W Electric Bike Go?

On flat terrain, a 750W e-bike can reach 28 mph (45 kmph), ideal for more intense rides.

How Fast Does a 1000W Electric Bike Go?

A 1000W e-bike can reach speeds up to 35 mph (56 kph) when riding on flat terrain, making it ideal for off-roading and hills.

How Fast Does a 1500W Electric Bike Go?

On flat ground, a 1500W e-bike can travel up to 40 mph (64 kph), perfect for riders who enjoy speed.

How Fast Does a 2000W Electric Bike Go?

On flat terrain, a 2000W e-bike can reach 45mph (72kph). That provides plenty of power for experienced riders.

How Fast Does a 3000W Electric Bike Go?

If it doesn't have any speed limiters, a 3000W e-bike can reach 48 miles per hour on flat terrain.

How Fast Does a 5000W Electric Bike Go?

A 5000W e-bike can reach 60 miles per hour on level terrain when unrestricted and without obstructions such as hills.

How Fast Does an 8000W Electric Bike Go?

An 8000W e-bike can travel up to 68 miles (109 km) without a speed limiter.

How Fast Does a 10000W Electric Bike Go?

A 10000W e-bike can reach 85 mph on level surfaces without restriction from any brakes.

Fastest Electric Bike in the World

Guinness World Records recognizes Voxan Wattman as the fastest electric motorcycle worldwide.

Max Biaggi, of former Grand Prix motorcycle racing fame, set a speed record on December 1, 2021, at Florida's Kennedy Space Shuttle Landing Facility with his race car, which traveled 283.182 mph (455.737 kph).

Under conditions with a moderate tailwind, my bike's GPS recorded its maximum speed as 292.204 mph (472.27 kph).

The Voxan Wattman: A Deep Dive

The Voxan Wattman is an impressive machine built to break world speed records.

Built-in Monaco, this vehicle packs 150 kW (roughly 203 horsepower) of power, allowing it to accelerate from zero to 62mph in just 3.4 seconds.

This bike's top-of-the-line design features an aerospace-grade aluminum chassis and a futuristic appearance reminiscent of high-tech. Additionally, its brushless permanent magnet motor is highly efficient and reliable.

Biaggi shared his excitement about setting the record with Cycle World shortly after setting it. Biaggi stated, "Seeing 470kph on my instruments is incredible; even for someone used to 300 kph in MotoGP, this speed is unreal. Your suit vibrates, burns your skin, and your vision blurs from turbulence. It's so extreme you can barely hold on and see straight ahead; it's mind-boggling."

Conclusion

E-bikes provide the ideal combination of speed and efficiency, making them an excellent option for riders of all levels and experience levels.

Whether it's for commuters, fitness enthusiasts, or casual riders - understanding what an e-bike can do will allow you to get the most out of your ride.

From commuter-friendly models capped at 28 mph to the record-setting Voxan Wattman, there is an e-bike suitable for everyone's needs.

FAQs

What is the top speed of a 500W electric bike?

A 500W electric bike can reach speeds of up to 25 mph (40 kph) on flat terrain.

Are there legal speed limits for e-bikes in the USA?

Yes, e-bikes are classified into three categories with speed limits of 20 to 28 mph depending on the class.

What is the fastest recorded speed for an electric bike?

The fastest recorded speed for an electric bike is 283.182 mph, set by the Voxan Wattman.