Speed Pedelecs: Top 5 E-Bikes That Hit 28mph (45km/h)

Ready to take a commute to an entirely new LEVEL of Speed and Efficiency? Speed pedelecs, or Class 3 e-bikes, are designed to reach speeds up to an amazing 28 mph (45km/h) with pedal assistance, perfect for outpacing city traffic or covering more ground. This guide will walk you through the top 5 high-speed electric bikes on the market, detailing what sets them apart from one another, and helping you find the perfect e-bike to suit your needs.

1. The Adventurer's Choice: ENGWE M20

ENGWE M20

Full Suspension Fat E-bike That Looks Like a Motorcycle

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The ENGWE M20 electric bike is an excellent option for those that don't just want to be confined to the road and love having a healthy motorcycle look. This e-bike is not about velocity; it’s about freedom to roam. Two suspension systems: one shock is the rear air shock, and another is the hydraulic front shocks. This combination brings next-level comfort, squashing bumps in city streets and rough trails. With the optional dual battery configuration you don’t even need to worry, offering an incredible potential range! The M20 was conceived and designed by ENGWE for the rider with an active pursuit of performance, style, and functionality that transports them anywhere and everywhere. It has never been that easy to travel in mountains.

• Running Grips:

  Full Dual Suspension system that is an essential piece. It makes the bike both smoother and more comfortable when going over bumps, but it also enables you to stay in control of your bike at all times, enhancing stability as well as comfort.

• Outstanding Range:

  A dual-battery system, comprising one 48V 14Ah frame-integrated battery and a second 48V 14Ah external unit offers all the power you’ll need for long journeys, without the worry of having to find charging stations.

• All-Terrain Traction:

  Tough 20x4.0 inch Triple Layer Tires. Long name, massive grip on whatever you throw at it: loose dirt, thick mud, street, or sand.

• Trusty Brakes:

  The faster you go, the more important good brakes become. The M20 is equipped with 160mm front and rear mechanical disc brakes for precision stopping power that you can rely on when it matters most.

• Built for Adventure:

  Featuring a 55 N.m brushless motor, lightweight aluminum-alloy construction, and Shimano 7-speed gears, the M20 is all about adventure.

2. Know Before You Go: Speed Pedelec Laws And Categories

There’s nothing like tearing through town at 28mph when you’re on an electric bike, but the first thing you need to understand is that it’s not like running a 28mph motorcycle. Speed pedelecs are classified as “Class 3” e-bikes in many places, with stringent rules to match. Failing to address these can result in fines or unsafe conditions. Responsible riders are informed riders. This information not only keeps you pedaling legally but also helps you decide which bike might be best for the areas in which you plan to ride, as some trails and paths may have their own set of restrictions.

• Rise of the 3-Class System:

  • Class 1: Pedal-assist only (no throttle) with a maximum assisted speed of 20 miles per hour.
  • Class 2: Has a throttle, so it does not require pedaling and will reach maximum motor-assisted speeds of 20 mph.
  • Class 3: Pedal assist only (some with a throttle that cuts out at 20 mph), maximum assisted speed of 28 mph. These are Speed Pedelecs.

• Legal Essentials:

  • Helmet Laws: In much of the country, riders of Class 3 e-bikes are required to wear helmets, regardless of how old they are.
  • Age Limits: Many places (e.g., 16 years old) specify a minimum age for riding a Class 3 e-bike.
  • Path Access: Multi-use bike paths, sidewalks, and recreational trails often do not permit speed pedelecs. They are usually marked for bike lanes and roads.
  • Registration and Licensing: In many places, you will not need a license or registration to ride, although some states or municipalities do have those things. Remember to refer to your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for the most accurate guidelines.

3. The Anatomy of Speed: What to Measure

All speed pedelecs are not created equal. Getting to 28mph (or close to it) while still maintaining tight and secure handling, along with on-road compliance, is something that requires a lot of high-level components working together in harmony. When you are shopping, you want to take your focus off of the advertised top speed and inspect the parts that get said performance; doing so is an important step. A strong motor won’t do you any good if your battery can’t handle it, and high speed is worthless without brakes to control it. Knowing these fundamental elements will help to ensure that what you’re buying is not just fast, but reliable, safe, and fun to ride personally over the years – making it a smarter investment.

• Motor Power and Type:

  A 500W (or, more often than not, 750W) motor is needed for Class 3 performance. Search for motors made by reputable manufacturers. Hub motors (in the wheel) are inexpensive and common; mid-drive motors (at the pedals) tend to have a better balance and produce more torque for climbing hills.

• Battery Capacity and Distance:

  This uses Watt-hours (Wh). Riding a Speed Pedelec requires a battery of 600Wh or more to have it provide enough range without dropping drastically at its top speed. Pro Tip: Take into account your average riding conditions (hills, wind, rider weight) as they will affect the range you can expect.

• Brakes:

  At 28 mph, being able to stop is not an option. Hydraulic disc brakes are better than mechanical: You get more stopping power, better modulation (meaning you have more control over the slow-to-fast speed at which hydraulic calipers close down on your rotor), and less hand fatigue when descending. 180mm rotors will be best for both heat dissipation and stopping power.

• Frame, Suspension, and Tires:

  You'll need a stout, stable frame to combat high-speed wobbles. The addition of suspension (either front or full) provides comfort and control on rough roads. It is important that the tires you choose have a good tread and are puncture-proof; getting a flat tire going at high speeds can be very dangerous.

4. Four More High-Performance Champions for Every Rider

Aside from our top adventure pick, there are great speed pedelecs for all needs — be it a fast-riding urban commuter or a burly utility hauler. These are the models that have earned their spot because they continue to bring 28 mph performance in a system that features quality components and positive rider opinions. Regardless if your requirements revolve around built-in tech, luggage space, or a blend of features and value, there's almost surely one of these players that is right for you and your high-speed riding aspirations. Each one brings its own formula for how to make fast and fun two-wheeled transport.

• Aventon Level.2: A great all-around commuter that sports a torque sensor for a natural pedal assist, integrated lights, and nice looking lines.
• Ride1Up 700 Series: Again, another option for a powerful motor and great parts in an affordable package from a company known for value.
• Specialized Turbo Vado: From a major bike brand, a premium option with a super smooth and quiet mid-drive motor, and a very polished ride experience.
• Juiced Bikes HyperScrambler 2: This motorcycle-like moped has an aggressive-looking design and offers the option of a giant dual battery with emphasis on power, range, and making an impression.

5. Smart Ownership: Getting the Most Out of Your E-Bike

When you own a performance machine like a speed pedelec, the initial purchase is only part of the picture. Smart buying combined with regular simple maintenance can save you a lot of money and expand the life of your electric bike. These are simple tips that can benefit any user in terms of performance, safety, and long-term value. A well-kept e-bike is a faster, safer, more reliable e-bike. Spending a few minutes each week on simple checks can save you some serious repair bucks and keep your bike always ready for that high-speed adventure.

How to Save When You Buy:

• Buy Off-Season: The demand for e-bikes tends to peak in the spring and summer. Watch for deals in late winter and early spring.
• Search for Holiday Sales: Special holidays, like Black Friday, are a good opportunity to find big discounts on top brands.
• "Last Year’s Model" May Be The Best Deal: Old models are typically heavily discounted once a new model is released, yet they perform as well as the latest and greatest.

Essential DIY Maintenance for Maximum Performance:

• Weekly Tire Pressure Check: We recommend checking tire pressure every week, as good inflation is the #1 factor in getting efficient mileage and avoiding flats. The recommended PSI is stamped on the tire sidewall.
• Drivetrain Clean & Lubricated: A clean chain and gears is a must to get the safest and most silent rides. Wipe the chain clean and lube with a bike-specific lube every 100-150 miles.
• Check Your Brake Pads: Periodically monitor your brake pads to see whether they are worn down. Worn brake pads diminish stopping power and they can also damage the brake rotors.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Do speed pedelecs deliver on their advertised range?
  No. Advertised range is an estimate under ideal conditions. Rider weight, terrain, and wind may affect range in the real world. If you ride consistently at 28 mph, you will burn the battery quicker.
• Is it possible to ride a speed pedelec on all bike paths?
  Usually not. Because of their faster speeds, Class 3 e-bikes are typically limited to on-street bike lanes and roads. Always verify local rules before rolling onto trails or pathways.
• Is the extra speed of a Class 3 e-bike worth it?
  For many, yes. Whether you’re commuting or looking to keep up with the flow of traffic on busy roads, having a bike that can operate at speeds as high as 28mph provides a considerable edge and can seriously reduce commute times.

Welcome to the world of high-speed electric bike travel.