E-bike classes explained: Class 1, 2 and 3 definitions

The three classes

The three-class system is a model law that many states have adopted in some form. The Municipality of Anchorage's e-bike handout summarises it this way:

Class	How the motor works	Assist stops at
Class 1	Assists only while you pedal	20 mph
Class 2	Has a throttle, which can power the bike without pedaling	20 mph
Class 3	Assists only while you pedal	28 mph

All classes have a motor under 750 W (1 horsepower) and fully operable pedals. Some state laws also require a speedometer on Class 3 bikes. A few states differ from the model, so read yours. Some bikes can switch between modes, and makers may label them "Class 1/2/3" or "multi-class". The class on your bike's label is what counts for rules, so don't assume a bike is legal in a mode just because the hardware allows it.

The federal definition

Separately, federal law (15 U.S.C. 2085) defines a "low-speed electric bicycle" as a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts, whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, powered solely by the motor and ridden by someone who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20 mph. This is a consumer-product definition that covers the 20 mph classes. State laws decide how a bike may be ridden.

Where each class can ride

Rules differ by state, city, park and trail. Common patterns in model-law summaries:

• Class 1 and 2 are generally allowed where bicycles are allowed, unless a local government restricts them.
• Class 3 is often limited to roads and bike lanes, and some places bar it from paths and trails.
• Some states set a minimum age for Class 3 riders.

As one example, the Kansas statutes define the classes in K.S.A. 8-1489 and set operating rules in K.S.A. 8-1592b. Our state page for Kansas records that a city, county or state agency may restrict a class on a path or trail, and that a person under 16 may not operate a Class 3. Other states differ. Use the state law checker to find yours.

How to check your own bike

1. Find the label. Many state laws require a label showing class, top assisted speed and motor wattage. Kansas does, according to its statute.
2. Check the maker's page for class and top assisted speed. Our bike pages show those only from the maker.
3. Read your state page on /laws/ and follow its link to the statute.
4. Check local rules for the park, path or trail you want to use.
5. If a bike has settings that change the class, use the class the label shows. Don't change settings to alter top assisted speed or assist limits.

Which class suits what?

• Class 1: a plain pedal-assist bike, usually the widest access.
• Class 2: adds a throttle. Useful if you want to start from a stop without pedaling, where the law allows.
• Class 3: faster assist, and more limited access and age rules in many places.

Whichever you pick, read the label, then your state's rules. For fit, see what size e-bike do I need. For battery questions, see UL 2849.

Common questions

Is a "750 W" bike always Class 2 or 3? No. Class depends on how the motor is controlled and its top assisted speed, not wattage alone.

Does the class change the federal definition? The federal definition covers bikes under 20 mph powered by the motor alone. Class 3 bikes assist beyond that, so state law is what covers them.

Do I need a licence? That is a state question. See the state law checker.

Facts here come from statutes and public summaries. Check the statute for your state before you rely on any of it.