The allure of speed is powerful, but the risks associated with unbridling an e-bike are even more so. With the increasing number of checks and inspections, it's time to take stock of the legislation, the real dangers, and the solutions for safe and peaceful e-bike riding.
Awareness born on the ground
The idea for this article came to me unexpectedly. As a traveling bicycle mechanic in La Rochelle, I'm used to standard repair requests. But recently, a customer contacted me with a request that, at first glance, seemed counterintuitive: he didn't want to unbridle, but rather, restrict his electric bike. The reason? A sudden increase in police checks in the region, sanctioning non-compliant e-bikes. This local situation, far from being anecdotal, reflects a much broader problem that concerns all owners of electric-assisted bicycles (EABs) in France and, more broadly, in Europe.
Why can my bike technically exceed 25 km/h? The global context
Before discussing illegality, it's important to understand why unbridling is often possible. Major engine manufacturers (Bosch, Shimano, Brose, Yamaha, Bafang, etc.) design their motors as global platforms, intended for a global market. However, legislation governing e-bikes is not uniform. In the United States, for example, the law distinguishes between several classes of electric bikes:
- Class 1: Assistance up to 20 mph (32 km/h), pedaling only.
- Class 3: Assistance up to 28 mph (45 km/h), pedaling only.
Manufacturers therefore create "configurable" engines whose behavior is then restricted by software to adapt to the legislation of each market. Unbridling consists of bypassing this software limitation to unleash the engine's full potential, a potential that is only legal in certain countries.
Understanding the legal framework in Europe: the key difference between VAE and Speed Pedelec
In Europe, the regulations are harmonized and very clear, mainly through Regulation (EU) No. 168/2013 . It distinguishes two categories of vehicles that must absolutely not be confused.
The VAE or "Pedelec": the standard for bicycles
This is the electric bike we all know. To be legally considered a "pedal-assisted cycle" (category L1e-A) and retain the same rights and obligations as a conventional bicycle, it must meet three cumulative conditions :
- The assistance should only be triggered when the cyclist pedals.
- The continuous rated power of the motor must not exceed 250 Watts .
- The electric assistance must be cut off as soon as the bike reaches a speed of 25 km/h .
If your bike meets these three requirements, it's fine. It's considered a bicycle. No need for special insurance, registration, or a moped-approved helmet (although the latter is strongly recommended for your safety).
The "Speed Pedelec": a moped that doesn't say its name
Any electric bike that provides assistance beyond 25 km/h (usually up to 45 km/h) changes category. It is no longer a bicycle, but a class L1e-B moped . The constraints then become radically different and much more onerous:
- Registration required (requires a registration card and a license plate).
- Specific insurance for mopeds is mandatory.
- Wearing an approved moped helmet (ECE2205 standard) is mandatory.
- Prohibition on the use of cycle paths (unless otherwise indicated). This is particularly important in the Netherlands, where, as the Dutch government points out, traffic regulations for Speed Pedelecs are very strict.
The risks of an unbridled bike: much more than just a fine
Riding an unbridled e-bike means knowingly exposing yourself to risks of several kinds, well beyond a simple fine.
Legal and financial risk
If checked, riding an unrestricted e-bike is punishable by a hefty fine, or even the vehicle's immobilization. But the most serious and least understood danger lies elsewhere. As the website service-public.fr points out, modifying the speed limit device is an offense punishable by one year in prison and a €30,000 fine. Above all, in the event of an accident, even if you are not at fault, an expert appraisal may reveal that your bike has been modified. Your insurance company may then legally consider that you were not driving the vehicle for which you were insured (a bicycle) but an undeclared moped. It may refuse to cover material and bodily damage. The financial consequences can amount to hundreds of thousands, even millions of euros , and can ruin a life.
Material risk and security
A motor, battery, and drivetrain that are pushed beyond their designed limits will wear out much faster. Removing the throttle is the best way to shorten the lifespan of your investment. Furthermore, the braking systems and frame geometry of a 25 km/h e-bike are not designed to withstand the stresses of a 45 km/h speed, creating a direct danger to your safety and that of others.
The trap of bikes "designed for fraud"
Special attention should be paid to certain bikes, often aggressively designed fatbikes or models imported directly from China. Many are sold with "hidden" menus or simplified connections, making unbridling a trivial task. These machines, while attractive, are a source of problems because their overall design (frame, brakes, tires) rarely matches the speeds they can achieve once modified.
How to get your bike back into compliance? Solutions
If you have any doubts, compliance is an operation that only a professional can guarantee. The method depends on the technology of your e-bike:
- Software throttling: For major brands (Bosch, Shimano, Brose, Yamaha, Bafang, etc.), a qualified technician can connect to the engine's diagnostic console. They can then check the parameters and, if necessary, restore the factory configuration, which ensures compliance with the European standard.
- Hardware Restriction: For bikes equipped with more "exotic" kits or motors, the intervention is often done at the controller level or by adding specific limiters. This requires advanced expertise.
Nuuuuut at your service: the conformity diagnosis
Whether you're in France, the Netherlands, or elsewhere in Europe, riding with peace of mind is priceless. If you have any doubts about the compliance of your e-bike, don't wait for an inspection or an accident to take action.
Nuuuuut is building its network of expert partners in France and Europe to help you. We now offer a diagnostic and compliance service to help you enjoy your e-bike safely and legally.