All speed pedelec regulations at a glance

What is a speed pedelec?

Before we go over the speed pedelec regulations, it is important to understand what a speed pedelec actually is. A speed pedelec is sometimes referred to as a fast e-bike or high-speed bike. Compared to a standard electric bicycle (which provides assistance up to 25 km per hour), a speed pedelec can reach speeds of up to 45 km per hour with assistance. Because a speed pedelec reaches such speeds, the government has decided that they fall under moped regulations.

Would you like to learn more about what a speed pedelec exactly is and how these fast e-bikes work? Then read our blog “ what is a speed pedelec .”

Due to the high speeds you can reach with a speed pedelec, it is extremely suitable for daily commuting, especially if you have to cover long distances to work every day. Thinking of buying a speed pedelec ? At Cyclobility, we offer attractive bicycle loans at 0.0% interest.

Where are you (not) allowed to ride with a speed pedelec?

If you buy a speed pedelec, you must follow the traffic rules for mopeds. In principle, on roads with a maximum permitted speed of 50 km per hour, you are free to choose whether or not to use the cycle paths.

On roads where the imposed speed limit is higher than 50 km per hour, cycle paths are in principle mandatory. The road authority can modify the local traffic situation by means of additional signs.

Speed pedelec riders must take into account traffic signs displaying the symbol of a moped and the letter P (which stands for speed pedelecs). For example, there is an additional sign indicating that you are required to use the cycle path, but there is also an additional sign indicating that it is prohibited to use the cycle path.

Where the speed limit is restricted to 50 km per hour or less, you may ride a speed pedelec on a cycle path indicated by traffic sign D9 (cycle path next to a footpath, separated by a solid white line). However, in this case you are also allowed to ride on the roadway with a speed pedelec.

Are you allowed to ride 45 km per hour everywhere?

You are not allowed to ride 45 km per hour everywhere with a pedelec. The maximum speed rules also apply to speed pedelecs. In areas with a maximum speed of 30 km per hour or less, you may not exceed this imposed speed limit.

In a bicycle street, you are in principle allowed to overtake other cyclists, but the maximum speed of 30 km per hour may not be exceeded there either.

Obligations when riding a speed pedelec

Leasing a speed pedelec , or buying: the rules are clear. Your bicycle must meet several requirements before you are allowed to take it on the road. Below is an overview.

Certificate of conformity

If you buy a speed pedelec, you need a certificate of conformity. This is a document from the manufacturer stating the vehicle identification number along with the precise characteristics of the bicycle. You need this to register your speed pedelec with the DIV (Vehicle Registration Service) and possibly to resell it later.

You do not have to carry this document with you while cycling, but you should keep it in a safe place.

Have you lost your certificate of conformity? Then you can request a duplicate from your seller. He or she will contact the manufacturer to provide you with a duplicate.

Driving license

If you take a speed pedelec on the road, you need a valid driving license for a speed pedelec . This may be a moped license or a license for another vehicle (with the exception of the G license for agricultural vehicles).

License plate

Another rule for speed pedelecs is that you need an SP license plate. You receive this license plate after registration with the Vehicle Registration Service. The dimensions of this plate are approximately 10 by 12 centimeters.

Bicycle helmet

Wearing an approved bicycle helmet is also mandatory when riding a pedelec. This speed pedelec helmet must have a CE label (in accordance with EN1078) and must protect the back of the head and the temples.

Insurance

There is no mandatory speed pedelec insurance , unless the pedelec can move autonomously without pedal assistance, in which case third-party motor vehicle liability insurance is required.

However, we do recommend taking out bicycle insurance for your speed pedelec. For our lease bicycles, we standardly provide comprehensive insurance against damage and theft. Roadside assistance is also included. In addition, personal liability insurance is certainly advisable.

Safety systems for children

It is prohibited to transport children under the age of 3 on a speed pedelec. Between the ages of 3 and 8, this is allowed, provided you install an appropriate safety system. It is important that the children’s feet can rest properly. Just like the rider, children on a speed pedelec must also wear a helmet.

Lighting

A speed pedelec must be equipped with a front light (which switches on automatically when starting), an indicator light for the front light, a rear light, and a brake light (to warn others that you are braking). Reflectors are also mandatory.

Rear-view mirror

Unlike a regular bicycle, a speed pedelec must be equipped with a rear-view mirror.

Horn

A horn or audible warning device is also mandatory on a speed pedelec. This is usually part of the standard equipment. On a regular bicycle, a bell is sufficient.

Frequently asked questions about speed pedelec regulations

Can you be caught speeding with a speed pedelec?

Yes, you can be caught speeding with a speed pedelec. According to the traffic code, a speed pedelec belongs to the category of mopeds. Just like other road users, speed pedelec riders must respect 30 km/h zones. If you ride too fast, you can be caught by a speed camera and receive a fine. Because the bicycle is equipped with a license plate, the vehicle can be easily identified.

How old do you have to be to ride a speed pedelec?

The rules are clear: you must be at least 16 years old to ride a speed pedelec. In addition, you must possess a valid driving license.