How fast do electric bikes go?

Though electric bikes (or e-bikes) have been around for a while, they’re still a relatively unknown phenomenon in many ways.

That is even despite figures from the Bicycle Association predicting around 164,000 of them were in the UK in 2024. With so many cyclists switching to electric, we could probably all do with upping our e-bike knowledge.

After all, even if you don’t currently own or even ride an electric bike, it’s highly likely you’ll be sharing the road with one at some point—so knowing the ins and outs is important.

Electric bike speed (EAPC)

E-bike speeds depend on various factors, including legislation.

The e-bike’s make, manufacturer and power all play a part, for a start, but as with other road vehicles, e-bikes also have to contend with legal speed limits.

Here, we are looking exactly at the limits for EAPCs (electrically assited pedal cycle), which are your typical e-bikes. To be classed as an EAPC, the bike must have pedals that can be used to propel it.

So, rather than how fast do they go, it’s arguably more a question of how fast are EAPCs allowed to go.

Electric bike speed limit UK

Currently, the maximum speed an electric bike can go legally in the UK is 15.5mph with an electric assistant. This means it can be propelled up to 15.5mph without pedalling, but only if it has been approved.

Of course, e-bikes can travel much faster than this with pedalling and when going down hills, for example. However, many electric bikes are fitted with technology that causes the motor to cut out if speeds surpass a certain level. 

In the UK, the electric motor must have a 'continuous rated power' output of no more than 250 watts, and you must not be able to propel the bike when it's travelling at more than 15.5mph.

But, of course, like cars—e-bikes can travel a lot faster than the speed limit, depending on their battery capacity.

Electric bike motor power

Let’s say you’re riding on completely flat terrain with no speed limits. The top speeds your electric bike could reach depending on your motor include:

• A 1000w electric bike can reach 45mph
• A 3000w electric bike can reach 48mph
• A 5000w electric bike can reach 60mph
• An 8000w electric bike can reach 68mph
• A 10000w electric bike can reach 85mph

To put this into perspective, beginner cyclists on non-motorised, standard bicycles travel at an average of around 12mph. So, it’s clear that electric bikes have some serious speed potential.

The higher the speed capability, the more expensive the e-bike. You could even be set back five figures for some of the highest-spec 10000w models.

It's important to always stick to the speed limits and ensure your e-bike complies with the power output rules and regulations to keep you and others safe.

Specialist electric bike insurance with Cycleplan

Now you know how fast electric bikes go, you’ll understand why it’s so important to protect them. You may want to consider electric bike insurance as a means of protection.

Specialist electric bike insurance with Cycleplan protects your e-bike against theft, loss and accidental damage up to £30,000.

Learn more about specialist electric bike insurance and get an online quote in minutes.