E-bike vs. speed pedelec: which one should you buy?
You see more and more electric bicycles in the streets, but the speed pedelec is also increasingly visible.
The name of that bike says it all; it is a lot faster than the e-bike. With a top speed of 45 km/h and the possibility to cycle longer distances, this is also an interesting option. Are you still in doubt? Read quickly why you should choose an e-bike or a speed pedelec.
The biggest difference between the two bikes with electric assistance is how fast you can cycle with assistance. With a normal e-bike you can cycle up to 25 km/h and after that the support stops and you cycle a lot heavier. You can cycle up to 45 km/h with assistance on the speed pedelec. This big difference also means that different rules apply to the speed pedelec. For example, you have to wear a helmet with this fast bike.
What do you use the bike for?
It is important for the choice of an e-bike or speed pedelec how you want to use the bicycle. For example, a regular e-bike is very suitable for short trips to the supermarket or commuting if you don’t live too far from work. The speed pedelec is suitable for anyone who has to cycle a bit further. If you have to cycle 20 kilometers or more to work every day, you can do this within half an hour with a speed pedelec.
Rules for the speed pedelec
The speed pedelec has a number of different rules than the e-bike. Because the bike can go so fast, you have to cycle with the speed pedelec on the roadway instead of on the bike path. You are also allowed on a separate moped path with your speed pedelec. Please note that you are not always allowed to cycle at your top speed, for example, the maximum speed on a moped path within built-up areas is 30 km/h.
In addition to the aforementioned helmet, it is also mandatory to mount a rear-view mirror on your speed pedelec. Even a bicycle bell is not enough for the speed pedelec, you must have a horn on the fast bike. A speed pedelec must even have a license plate, keep that in mind when purchasing because this will cost you € 130 more. The bicycle must also be insured and you must be in possession of a moped or car driving licence.
One of the most popular speed pedelecs is the Stromer ST1. With this speed pedelec you can reach speeds of up to 45 km/h and cycle up to 90 kilometers on a full battery. This bike is finished with the latest technologies and a very comfortable, and lightning fast, speed pedelec.
Price
Of course not unimportant; how expensive is the bike you want to buy? A speed pedelec is generally more expensive than an e-bike because of the better motor that is incorporated in the bicycle. Where the cheapest speed pedelec costs you more than €3,000, you can buy a new electric bicycle from about half that price. Yet there are also plenty of e-bikes that also have a high price. In terms of price, the excellent Koga PACE B05 is very comparable to a speed pedelec.
