Class 1 vs Class 2 vs Class 3 E-bike

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With transport within the city center becoming more challenging due to congestion and rising costs, people are adopting electric bikes as an alternative to cars and public transportation. Each electric bike brand is expanding its range so more people can unlock the potential of these fantastic machines.

With the diverse requirements of electric bike riders, governments have introduced classifications. The main reason behind electric bike classifications is safety.

There are three classes with subtle differences you need to understand before buying an electric bike. Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 e-bikes have specific characteristics that suit the rider's requirements. Also, the class of your e-bike may determine where you can legally ride it.

Uomo che guida la bici elettrica FiidoM1pro sulla spiaggia

In this article, we will go into the details of each class to help you choose the right e-bike for you. You'll learn the differences and their implications, and we'll also give you some excellent examples of e-bikes in each class you may want to check out.

What Are E-Bike Classes?

E-bikes are classified based on their motor functions and speed capabilities. These classifications help regulate where and how they can be used. The idea is to reduce the number of accidents, keeping riders and members of the public safe. Here's a quick overview:

- Class 1 E-Bikes: Pedal-assist only, no throttle, with a top speed of 20 mph.

- Class 2 E-Bikes: Pedal-assist and throttle, with a top speed of 20 mph.

- Class 3 E-Bikes: Pedal-assist only, with a top speed of 28 mph.

Class 1 E-Bikes

Class 1 e-bikes are the most basic type you can buy. They are a great entry point for beginners and those on a budget. They have a motor that only engages when you pedal, known as pedal assist. These bikes don't have a throttle mode, so you can't just sit back and let the bike do all the work for you. The motor disengages once you hit the assisted top speed of 20 mph. You can still ride faster using your own peddling or rolling downhill.

Class 1 e-bikes are legal in most areas. There's a good chance you'll be able to ride on most bike paths, trails, and roads, making them the most universally accepted e-bike class. The disadvantage of these bikes is that 20 mph may seem slow for experienced riders and those who want to cover longer distances quickly. Also, they don't have a throttle, so you can't rest your legs while still moving.

How Class 1 E-Bikes Work

Class 1 e-bikes are equipped with an electric assist system, which activates the electric motor when the rider pedals, providing additional power. The motor of these e-bikes only works when the rider pedals, and the maximum speed is usually limited to 20 mph (about 32 km/h), and they have no hand throttle, which means that the rider must actually ride to get the power support.

Advantages of Class 1 E-Bikes

Class 1 e-bikes have many advantages, the most important of which is that they provide a more relaxed riding experience for the rider, especially when climbing hills or riding long distances. Because of the speed and power restrictions, they are allowed on most bike paths and roads, which is perfect for urban commuting. In addition, Class 1 e-bikes are generally more energy-efficient and have a longer range than other types of e-bikes.

Tips For Class 1 Electric Bike Riders For Class 1 e-bike riders, there are several important tips to improve the riding experience. First, when you first start using it, you should choose a lower assist level to get used to the handling of the bike and gradually increase the power output. When taking a long ride or commuting, make sure the battery is fully charged and make a habit of charging it in time after each ride. Use the cadence assist properly, adjust the assist level according to different terrain, use a lower gear on flat roads, and increase the power when climbing hills to reduce physical exertion. Although Class 1 e-bikes can be used on most bike paths and roads, you still need to obey traffic rules, stay alert, and pay attention to your surroundings. Maintaining the proper tire pressure is also key to ensure a smooth ride, reduce wear and improve efficiency, which can also extend the battery life. When planning your route, since the speed limit of Class 1 e-bikes is 20 mph, try to choose roads that are suitable for riding and avoid high-speed traffic to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. Finally, safety equipment is essential. Wear a helmet and wear bright or reflective clothing, especially when riding in the morning or evening, to improve visibility and ensure safety.

Class 2 E-Bikes

Class 2 e-bikes are more versatile. Just like class 1 e-bikes, the motor assists your peddling, but you also have the addition of a throttle. The throttle operates via a thumb trigger, button, or by twisting the handlebar grip. It allows you to ride without peddling at all, although you still cannot ride faster than 20 mph when using the motor. These bikes are popular for commuting and running errands because you can switch between peddling and using the throttle as needed.

The throttle makes riding uphill and starting from stationary effortless. They are also widely accepted, like Class 1 e-bikes, but you may find they are restricted on some paths.

If you use the throttle extensively, you'll notice that your battery will drain much more quickly, reducing the range. So, it's best to combine using the throttle with pedaling.

How Do Class 2 Electric Bikes Work?

Class two electric bikes work by combining electric power and peddling just like you would on a regular bike. The motor is powered by a battery fitted externally or internally on the bike frame. The most significant difference between a Class 2 electric bike and the other classes is its throttle mode. Each electric bike brand uses its own preferred solution for the throttle. For example, some use a throttle lever or button which you push with your thumb. Other electric bike brands will fit their bikes with a twist throttle similar to a scooter or motorcycle. By activating this throttle mechanism, you can choose how much power the motor gives you. Whether peddling or using the throttle, you can reach a top speed of 20 mph.

Advantages Of Riding A Class 2 Electric Bike

A throttle mode on an electric bike has some significant advantages. Firstly, you can use the throttle to ride up hills without putting any effort into the pedals. Some people prefer to set off from a standstill using throttle mode, especially if they are not particularly mobile or fit or are carrying heavy loads. This is because the throttle mode gets rolling with zero effort.

The throttle mode on a Class 2 electric bike also gives the rider a chance to rest. Often, when someone lives in a hilly area, is recovering from an injury, or is just starting their fitness journey, peddling may become too challenging from time to time. Therefore, using the throttle can give you a break or get you home if you feel that you have overdone it.

Another advantage of using the throttle on a Class 2 electric bike is that it's fun. You can ride without any effort while enjoying the fresh air during a day out. In addition to this, you can arrive at your destination looking as fresh as when you left because you won't be hot and sweaty from peddling hard.

Tips For Class 2 Electric Bike Riders

Safety should be at the top of your list whenever you're riding an electric bike. This is even more important when riding a Class 2 electric bike in throttle mode. It's easy to get into trouble by squeezing the throttle too hard, especially when you are still new to electric bikes.

Always wear a helmet when riding your Class 2 electric bike. A good helmet reduces the likelihood of head injuries in an accident. You only get one head, so make sure you look after it.

As mentioned earlier, electric bikes are put into the three classes for safety reasons. Local laws concerning electric bikes vary by location. Therefore, we recommend you research and familiarise yourself with the regulations, as Class 2 electric bikes may not be permitted in certain areas and on specific paths. Additionally, some local regulations put age limits on electric bike usage, which may be a problem for some riders.

By understanding local electric bike laws, you have a better chance of staying safe and out of trouble with the police. On top of this, when you don't have to worry about being in the wrong way, you can enjoy your electric bike every day to the fullest.

Class 3 E-Bikes

Class 3 e-bikes are the fastest, with an assisted top speed of 28 mph. They are best for people who want to cover more ground quickly, making them popular with serious commuters and people who want a more intense ride. They have more powerful motors, which help you keep up with and pass traffic. Most do not have throttle mode, but a few are equipped with throttle, and due to their higher speeds are not allowed everywhere.

Some states require you to have a driver's license to ride a Class 3 e-bike. Additionally, some have age restrictions even if a license isn't required. You may find that you need to be at least 16 years old to ride a Class 3 e-bike in your area.

How Class 3 E-Bikes Work

Class 3 e-bikes are equipped with a cadence assist system, similar to Class 1, but with a higher speed limit, typically up to 28 mph (about 45 km/h). As the rider pedals, the electric motor provides more power output. Although they also typically don't have a hand throttle, some models may have this feature to help the rider get power from the electric motor without cadence.

Benefits of Class 3 E-Bikes

The main advantage of Class 3 e-bikes is their higher speed, making them more efficient for urban commuting and long-distance riding. Compared to Class 1, they can cover more distance faster, especially for users who want to get to their destination faster. In addition, Class 3 E-Bikes are generally more suitable for use on the road or in traffic-heavy environments due to their higher speeds, making riding more practical and efficient.

Tips For Class 3 Electric Bike Riders
Clothing to enhance visibility. Be aware of local laws, as some areas may restrict where Class 3 e-bikes are allowed, such as bike paths or certain trails. Given the faster speeds, make sure your brakes are well-maintained, checking brake pads and cables regularly. Efficient use of pedal assist is key; lower levels can help conserve battery life on flat terrain, while higher levels provide more power for hills or longer rides. When planning your routes, choose areas with less traffic and wide lanes to fully enjoy the bike’s speed while staying safe. Keep a close eye on your battery level, as higher speeds consume more power. On longer trips, it’s helpful to carry a charger or plan for charging stops. Lastly, ride defensively, staying mindful of other road users like cars and pedestrians. Always signal your intentions, use mirrors if available, and maintain a safe distance from vehicles.

Examples Of Fiido E-bikes In Each Class

Class 1 - Fiido C21

A great example of a Class 1 e-bike is the Fiido C21. This is a great electric bike with some excellent features that make it ideal for city commuting. For instance, its aluminum alloy frame is lightweight and foldable, so it is incredibly portable and easy to store. The C21's 250W motor is powered by a 208.8Wh battery, which gives you an approximate range of 100km (62 miles), which is often more than enough for most people's daily commutes.

- Motor - 250W

- Battery - 208.8Wh

- Range - 100km(62miles)

- Max Speed - 24 kph (15 mph)

Fiido E-Gravel C21 Electric Bike

$999.00 $1,799.00

Urban communter electric bike with torque sensor, only 38.58 lbs.

Learn more

Class 2 - Fiido D3 Pro

The Fiido D3 Pro is a popular Class 2 e-bike that fits a lot of cool stuff into a small package. Along with its throttle mode, owners love its user-friendliness from its foldable step-through frame. Its small wheels help with its compactness and make it incredibly agile, ideal for weaving through city streets. The Fiido D3 takes you up to 79 km (49 miles) in pedal-assist mode or 25km (15.5 miles) on the throttle for effortless journeys. It even has hydraulic disc brakes, which are rare on an electric bike of this type and price.

- Motor - 250W

- Battery - DMEGC 280.8Wh

- Range - 80km(49.7miles)

- Max Speed - 25km/h (15.5 mph)

Fiido D3 Pro Mini Electric Bike

$399.00 $599.00

The most affordable and adorable electric bike.

Learn more

Class 3 - Fiido M1 Pro

If you're looking for a Class 3 e-bikes, you may want to check out the Fiido M1 Pro. The first thing you notice about this e-bike is its fat tires. These improve ride quality by soaking up bumps and vibrations from the surface you're riding on. Additionally, the M1 Pro's fat tires give you lots of grip so you can confidently ride rougher terrain. This e-bike has a punchy 500W motor and a 7-speed drivetrain, allowing you to scramble up steep slopes and ride fast whenever you feel like it. Even though the M1 Pro is a rugged e-bike, it is highly versatile. Its foldable frame makes it easy to transport to the trails for a great day of riding. You also get nearly 90km (56 miles) of range using the pedal assist and 58km (36 miles) when using the throttle alone.

- Motor - 500W

- Battery - DMEGC 614.4Wh

- Range - 90km (56 miles)

- Max Speed - 45km/h (28 mph)

Fiido M1 Pro Fat Tire Electric Bike

$799.00 $1,099.00

The most cost-effective fat tire electric bike off road.

Learn More

Legal Considerations: Where Can You Ride?

The most important thing about choosing an e-bike in one of these classes is understanding where you are allowed to ride it. Laws and regulations vary by state and even by city, so you need to check which classes are permitted in your area.

You'll probably find that class 1 and class 2 e-bikes are allowed on most bike paths, trails, and roads, but some places may restrict class 2 e-bikes due to the throttle mode. Class 3 e-bikes are often restricted to roads and bike lanes. This means you cannot legally ride a class 3 e-bike on all paths and mountain bike trails.

It's important to understand the legal aspects of e-bike ownership, including licensing and insurance. Most people won't need a license or insurance, especially for class 1 and 2 e-bikes. Still, it's best to be aware of local regulations and consider the benefits of insuring your e-bike for peace of mind.

Due biciclette elettriche FiidoM1pro parcheggiate nella foresta

Which E-Bike Class Is Right for You?

Let's assume you live somewhere where you can ride any e-bike class. But you still need to decide which class is best for you.

If you are a beginner or a nervous rider, stick with a Class 1 e-bike. This type is the most straightforward to use, has the lowest power, and is the most accepted. Therefore, you will have a hassle-free riding experience with a Class 1 e-bike.

Riders who want flexibility should consider a Class 2 ebike. This is because these bikes have a throttle mode, making travel effortless if you want it to be. These bikes are also popular with people with mobility issues and those recovering from injury. They can use their e-bike to help with rehabilitation by exercising but then ride with the throttle if they feel like they've done too much or need to rest.

A Class 3 e-bike is the best choice if you're a serious commuter or fitness enthusiast. The extra speed makes riding more fun and allows you to get to your destination much quicker.

Conclusion

E-bikes come under three classes that are in place to regulate their usage and to meet different needs. Class 1 e-bikes offer a great introduction to electric biking, Class 2 bikes add versatility with throttle control, and Class 3 bikes deliver top-notch speed for those who need it.

When choosing an e-bike class, consider your lifestyle, where you plan to ride, and your budget. No matter which one you choose, you're investing in a convenient, eco-friendly way to get around. Check out the options on Fiido.com to find your perfect e-bike.

Tags: Categories guide, Comparing ebikes

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Class 1 vs Class 2 vs Class 3 E-bike