Is 20mph Enough for Ebikes, or Do They Need to Go Faster?

On the night of July 27, 2023, a horrific accident on the Manhattan Bridge bike path involving multiple electric scooters and bicycles resulted in severe injuries, raising concerns about the safety of high-speed electric vehicles on public pathways.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene with significant bloodshed and debris, underscoring the dangers of speeding e-bikes and other motorized vehicles in congested urban areas.

Is 20mph enough for e-bikes, or do they need to be faster to meet modern commuting needs?

Tesway electric bike can reach speeds of 28mph, offering robust quality with strong frames and reliable batteries.

Many buyers find them to be a great value, praising their performance and durability.

As Tom, an owner of the S5 folding ebike, mentioned, "It's perfect for commuting. The battery life is impressive, and the speed makes my daily rides much more enjoyable." 

Is 20mph Fast on an Electric Bike

While 20mph is a reasonable speed for most urban environments, there is a clear demand for higher speeds among a subset of e-bike users who seek more efficient and versatile commuting options.

For safety reasons, 20mph is generally considered adequate. Exceeding this speed can indeed be achieved with current e-bike technology, but it significantly increases the danger involved. 

A Reddit user expressed a strong disagreement with the 20mph limit, stating, "20 does is not very fast to me. I need to hit at least 23 over a short distance to get that feeling of flying.

Ebikes are pretty heavy, so it's pretty tough to do without assistance." This user finds the joy difference between Class 1 and Class 3 e-bikes significant, especially when needing to escape sudden rain or similar situations.

Another user shared their experience of maintaining higher speeds on an e-bike without issues, "I ride my e-bike at 28 mph all the time and I've never had any issues. Y'all really out here making up problems."

This sentiment is echoed by others who feel that the higher speed is manageable and does not compromise safety, particularly on well-maintained roads.

Conversely, some users have faced challenges with higher speeds. One remarked, "I’ve crashed 3 times at 15+. I’m good, thanks."

Another user mentioned more severe crashes at very high speeds but downplayed the severity, noting, "I've crashed a few times at 50-80mph. It's not that bad, bit of road rash and a couple bones snap. Nothing time can't heal."

Many riders believe that 20mph is sufficient for urban commuting.

It offers a good balance between speed and safety, reducing the risk of severe accidents and making it easier to navigate through traffic.

20mph is generally a sufficient speed for most cyclists, as the average cyclist travels at about 12mph, rarely exceeding this speed in everyday.

Others argue that 20mph feels too slow, especially for those who use e-bikes for longer distances or in areas with significant elevation changes.

They believe that the current speed limit hampers the efficiency of e-bikes and makes them less competitive compared to other forms of transportation. a 500-watt motor e-bike can easily reach 28mph, providing a more efficient and enjoyable ride for users who need to travel longer distances or deal with hilly terrain​.

20mph is enough for sidewalks or commuting. For travel and adventure, you can drive more than 20mph if you can ensure your own safety and the safety of the surrounding environment.

What is a Good Speed for an Electric Bike

 In the United States, e-bikes are typically categorized into three classes:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum speed of 20mph.

• Class 2: Throttle-assisted, with a maximum speed of 20mph.

• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum speed of 28mph, and equipped with a speedometer.

Speed Requirements for Different Classes of Vehicles

The speed capabilities of e-bikes vary significantly based on their motor wattage. 

Regulations aim to ensure these speeds are safe for both riders and other road users. 

Is Woeth Upgrading Electric Bike from 20mph to 28mph

Increasing the top speed of an e-bike by nearly 50% can significantly enhance its utility.

For commuters who need to reach destinations quickly, this higher speed is beneficial.

On busy streets, being able to keep pace with traffic can also improve safety and reduce travel time.

The added speed unquestionably makes riding more enjoyable, offering a thrilling experience similar to that of a high-speed road bike.

However, whether the upgrade is worth it depends on individual needs and the costs involved.

For those who use e-bikes mainly for leisurely rides, the higher speed may not be necessary.

Personally, while riding at 60mph on a road bike is exhilarating, it can also be intimidating. A top speed of 28mph might be too fast for some riders.

In my experience with a 20mph cargo bike, this speed is usually sufficient for paths and neighborhood streets.

The only time I wish for more speed is when sharing roads with moderate traffic.

If you frequently ride in such conditions, a faster e-bike might be worth considering. However, for routes that mostly avoid cars, 20mph is generally adequate.

Advantages of Upgrading

• Increased Efficiency: Higher speeds can significantly reduce commuting time, especially for long distances.

• Better Handling on Hilly Terrain: A faster e-bike can handle inclines more efficiently, making it more versatile for various terrains.

• Enhanced Riding Experience: Many users find riding at higher speeds more enjoyable and engaging.

Disadvantages of Upgrading

• Safety Concerns: Higher speeds can lead to more severe accidents, as seen in the Manhattan Bridge incident. Faster e-bikes require more skill and caution.

• Regulatory Issues: Upgrading an e-bike to exceed 20mph may result in non-compliance with local laws, leading to potential fines or restrictions.

The decision to upgrade often depends on individual needs and the specific conditions of the rider's environment. While some find the upgrade essential, others are content with the standard speed limit.

FAQs

How do motor wattage and speed correlate in e-bikes?
Generally, higher motor wattages allow for higher speeds, with 750W motors capable of reaching up to 28mph.

How long does an e-bike battery last?
The lifespan of an e-bike battery depends on factors such as usage, maintenance, and the type of battery. Typically, a well-maintained lithium-ion battery can last between 2 to 4 years or 500 to 1000 charge cycles.

How far can an e-bike travel on a single charge?
The range of an e-bike on a single charge varies depending on the battery capacity, motor efficiency, rider weight, terrain, and riding style. Generally, e-bikes can travel between 20 to 50 miles on a single charge, with some high-end models reaching up to 100 miles.