Speed pedelecPeru

Learn traffic rules with clear explanations and visual examples in our illustrated book, designed to make studying simple and engaging.


22. Speed pedelec

A speed pedelec is a high-speed electrically assisted bicycle whose motor can continue providing pedal assistance above the normal electric-bicycle assistance limit, typically up to approximately 45 km/h. It has pedals and is primarily designed to assist the rider while pedalling.

Because of its higher speed, a speed pedelec may legally be treated differently from an ordinary bicycle or electric bicycle. Special rules can apply concerning the minimum age, driving licence, helmet, registration, insurance, cycle-path use and permitted roads, depending on the country.

Speed pedelec
A Speedpedelec of German manufacturer 'Riese und Müller'.
Wikimedia.org • Sänger • CC BY-SA
What is a speed pedelec?

A speed pedelec is an electrically assisted pedal cycle capable of providing motor assistance at higher speeds than an ordinary electric bicycle, commonly up to approximately 45 km/h.

What is the difference between a speed pedelec and an ordinary electric bicycle?

An ordinary electrically assisted bicycle normally stops providing motor assistance at a lower speed, commonly around 25 km/h. A speed pedelec can continue assisting the rider at higher speeds.

Do you still have to pedal a speed pedelec?

Normally yes. A speed pedelec is primarily designed to provide assistance while the rider pedals, although limited walking or starting assistance may also be provided.

Can a speed pedelec travel at 45 km/h?

Many speed pedelecs are designed to provide assistance up to approximately 45 km/h. The actual permitted speed must still comply with the local speed limit and traffic conditions.

Do you need a driving licence for a speed pedelec?

This depends on the country's legal classification. Some countries classify speed pedelecs similarly to mopeds and require an appropriate driving licence.

Is a helmet compulsory on a speed pedelec?

Helmet requirements vary between countries, but because speed pedelecs travel considerably faster than ordinary bicycles, specific helmet requirements commonly apply.

Does a speed pedelec need a licence plate?

In countries where speed pedelecs are classified as mopeds or another motor-vehicle category, registration and a licence plate may be compulsory.

Does a speed pedelec need insurance?

This depends on its technical characteristics and local law. Some jurisdictions require motor-vehicle liability insurance, while others exempt pedal-assisted speed pedelecs under specified conditions.

Can a speed pedelec use a cycle path?

This depends on the country, road speed limit and traffic signs. Speed pedelecs may be permitted, required or prohibited on particular cycle paths.

Can a speed pedelec use a motorway?

Speed pedelecs are generally unsuitable for motorways and are commonly prohibited where mopeds or low-speed vehicles are not permitted. Follow the local access rules.

Can you carry a passenger on a speed pedelec?

This depends on the vehicle's construction and local rules. Where passengers are permitted, the speed pedelec must be designed and equipped to carry them safely.

Is a speed pedelec the same as an electric moped?

No. A speed pedelec is primarily designed to provide pedal assistance, while an electric moped can normally propel itself without requiring the rider to pedal. Their legal classifications may nevertheless be closely related.

1 Peru 2 Bike path 3 Toll road 4 Driving licence 5 Reversing 6 Licence plate 7 Bus 8 Police 9 Ambulance 10 Pothole 11 Path 12 Particulates 13 Air pollution 14 Rush hour 15 Road code 16 Street gutter 17 Cargo bike 18 Forestry vehicle 19 Construction vehicle 20 Semi-trailer truck 21 Trolleybus 22 Speed pedelec 23 Delivery vehicle 24 Idling 25 Tow truck 26 Four-wheel drive 27 Bicycle 28 Motorcycle equipment 29 Rail track 30 Caravan 31 Trailer 32 Tow hitch 33 Fire truck 34 Siren 35 Convoy 36 Emergency vehicle lighting 37 Agricultural machinery 38 Electric bicycle 39 Electric vehicle 40 Pedelec 41 Quadricycle 42 Microcar 43 All-terrain vehicle 44 Van 45 Recreational vehicle 46 Scooter 47 Trikke 48 Personal mobility device 49 Skateboard 50 Segway 51 Kick scooter 52 Roller skates 53 Mailman 54 Hitchhiker 55 Toddler 56 Child 57 Disability 58 Motorail 59 km/h 60 mph 61 Speedometer 62 Ride height 63 Dirt road 64 Driving 65 Start-stop system 66 Manual transmission 67 Automatic transmission 68 Throttle 69 Tachometer 70 Steering wheel 71 Power steering 72 Visual scanning 73 Mirror 74 Fuel 75 Fuel gauge 76 Petrol 77 Diesel 78 Diesel exhaust fluid 79 Car insurance 80 First aid kit 81 Fire extinguisher 82 High-visibility clothing 83 First aid 84 Concrete step barrier 85 Barriers 86 Vehicle lights 87 Street lights 88 Dipped beam 89 High beam 90 Fog lights 91 Front fog lights 92 Rear fog lights 93 Side lights 94 Turn signals 95 Hazard lights 96 Dashboard lights 97 Bicycle lighting 98 Bicycle bell 99 Headlight flashing 100 Seat belt ...