Pedelec

The term pedelec is derived from the words 'pedal' and 'electric' and refers to the kind of electric bicycle powered by a combination of electric motor and muscle power. With a pedelec, the motor only starts when the rider begins pedalling. A pedelec also allows the rider to switch off the motor assistance for a non-powered cycling experience.

What is a Pedelec?

A pedelec is an electric bicycle equipped with an auxiliary electric motor for assistance. This can be a front motor, a mid-mounted motor or a rear motor.

To be classified as a pedelec, an e-bike must have the following characteristics:

1. The bicycle is moved by muscle power.

2. It has an auxiliary electric motor with a continuous rated power of max. 0.25 kW.

3. The assistance from the electric motor decreases progressively with the bicycle’s speed.

4. The motor assistance is interrupted when the bicycle reaches a speed of 25 km/h or when the rider stops pedalling.

What are the differences between an e-bike and a pedelec?

Although the terms e-bike and pedelec are often used synonymously, these two types of electric bicycle do differ significantly from each other. In Germany, while an e-bike is legally classified as a small motor vehicle, a pedelec is still considered a bicycle. This has a number of implications under both traffic law and insurance law. Most electric bicycles that you see for sale are, strictly speaking, pedelecs, and are only referred to as 'e-bikes' as a generic term.

In simple terms, e-bikes and pedelecs differ in the fact that an e-bike can be ridden under electric power even without the rider pedalling, while a pedelec’s motor is only activated with the pedalling of the rider. But there are actually several other differences:

• bicycle

• max. permitted electric pedal assistance up to 25 km/h

• motor’s power max. 250 watt

• does not require an insurance number plate

• helmet not mandatory

• classified in Germany as small motor vehicle (Kleinkraftfahrzeug)

• moves at the push of a button, without muscle power assistance

• motor power without assistance more than 6 km/h

• insurance licence plate and, depending on the speed, moped test certificate or driving licence required

• helmet mandatory

Is a pedelec with start assist automatically classified as an e-bike?

A pedelec with start assist or walk assist is not automatically an e-bike. However, if the start assist exceeds the legally permitted speed of 6 km/h, a pedelec becomes an e-bike, with all the legal and insurance requirements that this entails. If you use your pedelec or e-bike as a company bicycle, there are also differences in tax treatment that may be relevant to you.

What is an S-Pedelec?

In Germany, an S-pedelec (or 'speed pedelec') is also qualified as a motor vehicle (just like an e-bike). It has motor assistance that goes beyond the approved maximum speed of 25 km/h, and which can accelerate the bicycle up to 45 km/h.

An electric bicycle is considered an S-pedelec if it fulfils the following conditions:

• Its start assist or walk assist exceeds 6 km/h.

• The motor has a maximum continuous rated power of more than 250 watts.

• The motor assistance is not interrupted when the maximum permitted speed for a start assistance of 6 km/h is exceeded.

• The max. speed is 45 km/h.

S-pedelec riders must keep a few things in mind:

• The rider must be at least 16 years old.

• You may only ride an S-pedelec on a cycle path if the path is approved for mopeds. If not, you must use the road.

• A motor vehicle licence plate is not required, although you must have third party liability insurance and an insurance license plate affixed to the S-pedelec.

• An S-pedelec may not tow a bicycle trailer.

• An S-pedelec may not be taken on public transport.

• The S-pedelec must have a side mirror and reflectors.

Pedelec – legal and insurance requirements

Unlike with an S-pedelec or an e-bike, if you ride a pedelec, there is not much to consider in terms of traffic and insurance law:

1. riders are not required by law to wear a helmet

2. liability insurance not compulsory

3. no legally prescribed minimum age for the use of a pedelec

4. use of bicycle trailers is permitted, unless stipulated otherwise by manufacturer

5. start or walk assist up to 6 km/h maximum speed is permitted

6. EU declaration of conformity incl. CE marking is required

7. no permit necessary

Pedelec – FAQs

Finally, we provide a few brief answers to some further questions about the pedelec below.

Is a pedelec covered by my household contents insurance?

Since a pedelec is qualified as a bicycle, it is included under most household insurance policies. Do note, however, that cover is often subject to a maximum amount. For higher-priced models, it is advisable to take a closer look at this and contract e-bike insurance if needed.

Who is allowed to ride a pedelec?

Because a pedelec is legally qualified as a bicycle, there are no restrictions on riding one. For S-pedelecs, an age restriction applies: the rider must be aged 16 or older.

Which is faster – e-bike or pedelec?

On both e-bikes and pedelecs, the motor assists the rider up to a speed of 25 km/h. S-pedelecs provide motor assistance up to 45 km/h.