S-Pedelec (up to 45 km/h)

S-Pedelec / E-Bike 45 km/h

S-Pedelecs are the fastest of all e-bikes. They have a powerful drive that assists you when pedalling up to a speed of 45 km/h. Only then is the motor throttled. With conventional e-bikes, the limit is 25 km/h. Anyone who has ever sat on an S-pedelec will love it. These fast e-bikes make the heart of every passionate cyclist beat faster. The increasing variety of models does not make the choice any easier. Nevertheless, the number of S-pedelec riders is growing – despite, or perhaps because of, the fact that cycle paths are off-limits and a driving licence and helmet are mandatory. These e-bikes offer qualities that are replacing cars for more and more commuters because they significantly increase the range and help to close the comfort gap between bicycles and cars.

Contents:

• What is an S-pedelec?
• What licence is required for S-pedelecs?
• S-pedelec: Where can you ride?
• What do you need to bear in mind when riding an S-pedelec?
• Buy a speed pedelec

What is an S-pedelec?

From a legal perspective, speed pedelecs (or fast pedelecs or e-bikes with a top speed of 45 km/h) are not bicycles. Even though they hardly differ visually from e-bikes with a top speed of 25 km/h, they are classified as mopeds, at least in Germany. They can be recognised by their rear-view mirror, yellow side reflectors and sturdy side stand. They also make themselves clearly audible with a horn, which is mandatory. Drive The drive on an S-pedelec is usually located either in the bottom bracket – in which case it is referred to as a mid-drive motor – or in the rear wheel hub. While mid-drive motors are generally lighter, they also consume less power and offer a very good centre of gravity. S-pedelecs with rear wheel hub motors, on the other hand, have a wider gear ratio range and offer the option of charging the battery while riding thanks to recuperation technology. Anyone considering purchasing a speed pedelec should therefore carefully consider the intended use in advance.

What driving licence is required for S-pedelecs?

An e-bike with a top speed of 45 km/h can reach higher speeds than a normal e-bike and can even be faster than a moped. This means that they fall into a different category under traffic law. Not in all countries – but in Germany – at least a Class AM driving licence (included in the car driving licence as driving licence class B, formerly 3) is therefore required if you want to ride a fast e-bike. This driving licence is issued from the age of 16.

S-pedelec: Where are you allowed to ride?

As S-pedelecs may only be ridden on public roads, wearing a helmet is also mandatory. In addition, an insurance plate must be clearly visible. If the bike was registered after 2015, the plate must be illuminated. S-pedelecs must always ride with their lights on anyway. The insurance obligation is linked to the registration plate. This includes at least third-party liability insurance. It is also worth considering partial comprehensive and theft insurance. Please note: S-pedelecs are classified as small motorcycles and are therefore also prohibited on paths marked with a "moped-free" sign. They are also prohibited on one-way streets that are open to traffic in the opposite direction and on field and forest paths marked with a "no entry" sign.

What do you need to bear in mind when riding an S-pedelec?

Attention families! As a speed pedelec is classified as a single-seater motor vehicle according to its operating licence, no child seat may be fitted. Riding with a child trailer is also not permitted.

Bicycle enthusiasts need to be careful, because in principle, the days of DIY repairs are over with the purchase of an S-pedelec. This is because e-bikes may not be structurally modified in the way that is easily possible with conventional bicycles. The components used in speed pedelecs must always comply with the operating licence. This even applies to wear parts such as tyres or brake levers. If an S-pedelec is equipped differently than stated in the documentation, it must be presented to the technical service. Otherwise, it is not permitted to be used on the road again. Caution should also be exercised when consuming alcohol: A different blood alcohol limit applies than for bicycles. While you are allowed to ride with a blood alcohol concentration of up to 1.6 per mille, the limit for S-pedelecs is the same as for cars and motorcycles. The limit is 0.5 per mille.

Buy a speed pedelec

The model of electric bicycle you choose, whose pedal assistance only switches off at 45 km/h, depends on your individual needs. The rider's personal abilities are also crucial. As a general rule, S-pedelecs require a higher level of awareness and smarter reaction times than normal cycling. High-quality components support the rider and their environment in terms of safety. E-bikers should be aware that the higher speeds place much greater strain on the material. For this reason, the frame should be particularly sturdy and the brakes should be highly efficient.