Buying guide: Class 3 electric speed bike

Are you looking for a speed pedelec but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, this is the perfect starting point.

In this article, we’ll discuss the key factors to consider when buying a speed pedelec. From the range and motor type to the gearing system and safety requirements, we’ll lay everything out for you. We won’t discuss specific models or brands here; this is an informative article. For a comparison of the best speed pedelecs of 2024, click here.

After reading this speed pedelec buying guide, you’ll have a good understanding of the components of the SP and how important they can be in your decision. Now you can start comparing online or talk to the bike shop to find the right model.

Types of Speed Pedelecs

Although not as extensive as e-bikes, we are gradually seeing more and more types or models of speed pedelecs.

In the near future, we will delve deeper into this. Just like the automotive industry, you simply get more options and more typical designs. For now, we categorize them very simply into:

• Fast sporty speed pedelecs (sporty riding position)
• City speed pedelec models (upright riding position)
• Cargo bike speed pedelecs
• Longtail speed pedelecs

1. Electric Motor

The motor is the heart of your speed pedelec and determines the power, acceleration, and speed of your bike. There are different types of motors available, such as mid-drive motors and rear-wheel motors. Front-wheel motors are considered too dangerous for speed pedelecs.

Mid-drive motors are generally more efficient and offer better weight distribution but may sometimes provide less direct power. Rear-wheel motors are ideal for speed enthusiasts but may require more maintenance.

Differences in Wattage and Torque (Nm):

Torque power (expressed in Newton meters, Nm) is a measure of the force a motor can deliver. Force is particularly useful for rides with weight or uphill.

If you want to know how fast a speed pedelec is, we look at wattage, which gives an indication of the power and how easily it can maintain speed.

For a speed pedelec:

• Rear-wheel motors have a power of 600 to 800 watts and only 45 to 55 Nm.
• Mid-drive motors usually have only 500 to 750 watts of power and yet 75 to 85 Nm.
• Speed pedelecs with two-wheel drive (or AWD) enjoy 1000 to 1500 watts and 100 to 150 Nm.

For now, mid-drive motors are at a disadvantage when it comes to speed. Rear-wheel motors took the lead, but suddenly models with two-wheel drive are emerging. Now that mid-drive motors are catching up, the future for speed pedelecs is wide open.

Mid-Drive Motors:

Mid-drive motors are placed at the bottom bracket. This gives them better weight distribution and a lower center of gravity. This results in better stability, whereas a rear-wheel motor can slip during acceleration.

Mid-drive motors also deliver direct power to the chain, resulting in a more natural riding feel and more efficient energy transfer. They have more Nm but are less powerful. It also causes more chain wear.

Powerful and well-known mid-drive motors include Bosch Performance or Cargo Line, Brose S Mag, Shimano STEPS E8000, Yamaha PWseries SE, and Bafang M300. Pinion also now offers a speed pedelec motor that should handle 45 km/h without any problems.

Rear-Wheel Motors:

Rear-wheel motors are placed in the rear wheel of the bike and have higher top speeds and acceleration. They cause less chain wear but make replacing a rear tire difficult. There is also slightly more maintenance.

Rear-wheel motors are suitable for speed enthusiasts. With a mid-drive speed pedelec, you can easily ride along up to 35 km/h. If you want to go faster, you have to push hard. With a rear-wheel motor speed pedelec, you can easily reach 45 km/h. You also leave everyone behind when the light turns green.

Well-known brands and models of rear-wheel motors include Neodrive, Bactrion, IntuEdrive, and Stromer.

Front Wheel Motor

A front wheel motor has some disadvantages that become more apparent at high speeds. In short, they offer a less safe riding experience. That’s why most speed pedelec manufacturers opt for a mid or rear wheel motor. Recently, however, we’ve seen the front wheel motor being used in combination with another motor.

Two-Wheel Drive

It promises to be an exciting time for speed pedelec enthusiasts. We see many innovations; the bikes are getting smarter and borrowing features from the automotive sector.

Speed pedelecs with all-wheel drive or drive on both wheels are still something new, but we see this becoming a trend in the premium range. The combination of rear-wheel and front-wheel drive provides more control, better acceleration, and top speed.

Due to the synergy between the two motors, there is also a need for special software. Once again, something where manufacturers can distinguish themselves.

At the time of writing, we only know two brands that do this, Ellio and Specter. And although they both provide two-wheel drive, the way they do it is completely different. With Specter, we see a mid-motor with a front-wheel motor. With Ellio, we see a motor of their own design that drives the rear wheel via a belt drive.

Motor Brands and Reputation:

In electric bicycles, we know the market leaders. Bosch, Bafang, and Shimano dominate the market while Yamaha, Brose, and others follow. In niche segments such as mountain bikes and racing bikes, we see other brands such as Pinion and Fazua emerging strongly.

It’s different with speed pedelecs. These electric motors are much more powerful, and the best speed pedelec motors cannot be compared to those limited to 250 watts. More and more often, we also see two motors being used to drive both wheels.

When it comes to speed pedelecs, brands like Neodrive, Stromer, IntuEdrive, and Bafang are the most qualitative. Of course, the mid-motors from Bosch and Pinion are not to be underestimated, and Brose and Shimano also belong in this list. Just know that they are currently not as powerful as the others… But this will also change in the future.

2. Battery

The battery is a crucial part of a speed pedelec because it needs to meet your route’s demands. There are different battery sizes available, expressed in watt-hours (Wh).

The most common battery sizes range from 400 to 750. Some brands have a slightly heavier battery, but this is exceptional. Of course, there are also speed pedelecs with a dual battery.

Battery Brands and Their Pros and Cons:

Some well-known brands for e-bike batteries are Bosch, Shimano, Brose, and Yamaha. These brands offer reliable and high-quality batteries, but there may be some differences in performance, lifespan, charging time, and price.

1. Bosch: Bosch offers a wide range of batteries with different capacities and is known for its reliability and quality. The PowerTube and PowerPack series (625 to 750 Wh) are popular choices. Bosch batteries are also slightly more expensive.
2. Shimano: Shimano batteries, such as the BT-E8010 (504 Wh), are known for their compact design and good performance. The capacity of Shimano batteries is lower than that of Bosch variants.
3. Brose: Brose batteries are reliable and offer a good balance between performance and weight. They are almost always used in combination with Brose motors.
4. Yamaha: Yamaha is known for its reliability and efficiency. In Belgium and the Netherlands, we mainly see Bosch, Shimano, or own-brand batteries.
5. Bafang: A Chinese brand that can compete with the above giants. Bafang provides reliable components at a reasonable price. This keeps the purchase price of these speed pedelecs lower, which works in your favor.

Range and Conditions:

While manufacturers often provide an estimated range for their speed pedelecs, it’s important to know that the actual range can vary. This variation depends on various factors:

• Riding Style: An aggressive riding style with lots of acceleration and high speeds consumes more energy.
• Environmental Factors: Factors like wind and terrain affect the range. Cold weather can reduce battery performance, while headwinds and hilly terrain require more power.
• Level of Pedal Assistance: The more pedal assistance you use, the more energy the battery consumes, and the shorter the range.
• Weight: The total weight of the bike, rider, and any cargo. Heavier loads require more energy.

For commuting, a range of 40-60 km is usually sufficient. Even at high speeds and with an older battery, you can still easily reach 25 km. This should be enough. For longer bike rides, choose a model with a larger range.

3. Gear System

Speed pedelecs can be equipped with a derailleur or a hub gear system, such as the Enviolo hub. A derailleur is lighter and often cheaper, but it requires maintenance and wears out faster. An Enviolo hub is low maintenance and provides a smooth shifting experience.

Much also depends on quality. An excellent hub gear is better than an excellent derailleur, but an excellent derailleur is better than a poor hub gear. If you prioritize price, consider a derailleur. If you prioritize riding comfort, opt for a hub gear.

Derailleur:

A derailleur system consists of gears (also called cassettes) and a chain. The gears have different sizes and are attached to the rear axle of the bike and at the crankset (where the pedals are attached). The derailleur mechanism moves the chain from one gear to another, allowing you to change the gear ratio to pedal more smoothly at different speeds and inclines.

Advantages of a derailleur:

• Lighter in weight
• Often cheaper
• Usually provides a wider range of gears

Disadvantages of a derailleur:

• Requires more maintenance (chain lubrication, derailleur adjustment, etc.)
• Chain and gear wear may occur more quickly
• Shifting is often less smooth, especially with poor maintenance

Hub Gear (such as Enviolo Hub):

A hub gear system is located in the hub of the rear wheel and is a sealed unit. Instead of a chain moving over different gears, a hub gear system works with internal gears and linkages to change the gear ratio.

An Enviolo hub is a special type of hub gear that allows for continuous shifting, meaning you can shift smoothly without fixed steps between gears.

Advantages of a hub gear:

• Low maintenance (sealed system protected from dirt and water)
• Smooth and continuous shifting
• Can shift while stationary
• Quieter

Disadvantages of a hub gear:

• (currently) Heavier than a derailleur
• More expensive

4. Wheels and Tires

The wheel size and tire choice are crucial for the performance and comfort of your speed pedelec. Wheels typically range between 26 and 28 inches (sometimes 24 or 29). Larger wheels offer more stability and rolling resistance, while smaller wheels are more maneuverable and accelerate faster.

The right tire choice depends on the type of terrain you ride on. For off-road trails, robust tires with good tread are essential. If you mainly ride on paved roads, smooth, lightweight tires with less rolling resistance are the best choice.

Tires provide shock absorption depending on their width and air pressure. Wide tires with lower air pressure provide more comfort and grip, especially on unpaved roads. If the pressure is too low, you risk getting a flat tire when hitting a pothole or curb.

Our Riese Muller (electric bike) has thick, wide, large all-terrain tires. With the mid-drive motor delivering 85 Nm, the bike can easily reach 25 km/h, both on flat ground and uphill. Exceeding the capped speed is nearly impossible due to the bike’s weight and the width of the tires. A Stromer can easily reach 45 km/h due to its narrow tires and rear-wheel drive but is not suitable for off-road terrain.

It is important to choose the right tires for your specific riding conditions. For commuting on paved roads, smooth, fast tires with an average width (e.g., 32-40 mm) are usually suitable.

For off-road riding or unpaved trails, wider tires with more grip and tread (e.g., 42-50 mm) are recommended. These provide extra traction and shock absorption on rough terrain. It may affect your speed, but off-road riding may not require speeds of 45 km/h.

5. Suspension Considerations

Suspension is important. Your tires provide a primary defense against bumps and uneven terrain. Belgian roads and bike lanes offer an additional challenge. Therefore, you have a few extra options. This is not a must, but it can certainly make your ride more enjoyable. On rough roads, it is also a matter of safety.

There are three additional options:

1. Front Suspension: Suitable for most situations, especially on paved roads and light unpaved trails. It provides comfort and shock absorption without adding much extra weight.
2. Full Suspension (front and rear suspension): Generally not necessary for speed pedelecs unless you plan to ride extensively off-road on rough terrain, or mountain bike, but then an electric MTB is sufficient. These models are also more expensive than others.
3. Suspension Seatpost: A compromise between comfort and weight, especially useful for long rides or sensitive riders. It helps absorb shocks and vibrations but may slightly reduce efficiency and be heavier than a standard seatpost. We highly recommend it, and our backs are thankful.

Choose a suspension system that best suits your riding style and the terrain you will be riding on. Again, quality is also important. Decathlon sells a full-suspension electric bike for 1600 euros, but whether this is really a good bike…?

6. Weight, Frame, and Riding Position

Speed pedelecs, like electric bikes, are heavier than regular bicycles due to the motor and battery. They weigh approximately the same as the average electric bike. The average weight ranges between 25 and 30 kilograms, but lighter and heavier models are also available.

Keep in mind that a heavier bike requires more effort to lift, carry, or maneuver. It can be challenging to stop at a red light and suddenly have to tilt your bike if it’s heavy. However, weight provides more stability and grip on the road. Considering it’s electrically powered, we prefer weight over lightweight.

Frame and Frame Size

First, there’s a choice made by the manufacturer. You can’t change this, but you should consider it when comparing and testing; the choice of frame material. This also affects your riding comfort and the strength of the frame.

The choice of frame and the ergonomics of your speed pedelec determine your cycling experience. Choose a frame that fits your body height and riding style. A sporty frame with an aerodynamic design helps reduce air resistance and increase speed. Adjustable stem and saddle height provide a comfortable riding position.

Choosing the right frame size is essential for a comfortable and efficient cycling experience. Follow these guidelines to determine the correct frame size based on your height:

Measure Inseam Length:

First, measure your inseam length. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and measure from the ground to your crotch. This helps you find the correct stand-over height (the distance from the top of the frame to the ground) for easy mounting and dismounting.

Calculate Frame Size:

Most manufacturers indicate frame size in centimeters (cm) or inches (“). Use this formula to get a general idea of the correct frame size:

For racing bikes and speed pedelecs with a sporty frame: inseam length (cm) x 0.66 = estimated frame size (cm)
For city bikes and hybrid bikes: inseam length (cm) x 0.61 = estimated frame size (cm)

For example, if a person’s inseam length is 84 cm:
For racing bikes and speed pedelecs with a sporty frame: inseam length (cm) x 0.66 = estimated frame size (cm). Therefore: 84 cm (inseam length) x 0.66 = 55.44 cm

Note: these are general guidelines, and individual preferences may vary. Always visit a bicycle shop to try different sizes and find the perfect fit.

Tips for Finding the Right Size:

• Ensure there is approximately 2.5-5 cm of space between the crotch and the top tube of the frame when standing over the bike.
• Pay attention to the saddle height. When sitting on the saddle with one foot on the lowest point of the pedal rotation, your knee should have a slight bend (about 80-90% of the full leg length).
• Check if you can comfortably reach and operate the handlebars without leaning too far forward or stretching too much.

Safety and Legislation

Speed pedelecs are subject to specific legislation, such as helmet requirements and insurance requirements. Ensure that your speed pedelec complies with local regulations and is equipped with the necessary safety features, such as lights, reflectors, and a functioning bell.

Be sure not to purchase a model that is illegal for Belgian roads. A speed pedelec with a button for acceleration is not a legal speed pedelec.

Frequently Asked Questions about Speed Pedelecs

How does it differ from a regular e-bike?

A speed pedelec can reach speeds of up to 45 km/h, while a regular e-bike is usually limited to 25 km/h. Speed pedelecs have their own laws and regulations, such as mandatory helmets, mirrors, speedometers, license plates, etc.

How much does a good speed pedelec cost?

The price of a speed pedelec varies depending on the quality and specifications, but you can expect a decent model to range between €2,500 and €5,000. Opting for premium models falls into the price category of around €7,000 to €12,000 for the absolute luxury models. Here we find the best models from Riese Muller, Stromer, or Aska.

Is a speed pedelec safe?

Yes and no, it all depends on the rider. A speed pedelec resembles more a moped than a bicycle. Accidents at these speeds are very dangerous. Falling at 45 km/h can cause serious injuries. Safety, as well as modest riding behavior, are therefore important.

Opt for a good helmet and appropriate clothing to avoid burns (from falling), just like on a moped. It’s not a must, but a vest to protect your spine also seems like a good idea in some cases. A speed pedelec is higher and lighter than a moped. Falling can always happen, and it’s certainly not only dependent on your cycling skills.

Can I ride it on the bike path or the road?

You can ride it on the road and on the bike path as long as you follow the rules of the road. Just because you can go faster doesn’t mean you can do less. However, you must change and reduce your speed. The maximum of 30 per hour near schools also applies to cyclists and therefore to speed pedelecs.