PedelecBruxelles
Règles de circulation
Bruxelles
109. Pedelec
Un pedelec, abréviation de cycle électrique à pédalage, est un vélo équipé d’un moteur électrique qui fournit une assistance pendant que le cycliste pédale. Le moteur complète l’effort du cycliste sans remplacer entièrement le pédalage.
La puissance maximale du moteur et la vitesse d’assistance autorisée dépendent de la législation locale. Lorsque le vélo reste dans les limites applicables, il est normalement considéré comme un vélo plutôt que comme un cyclomoteur ou une moto. Les vélos électriques plus rapides sont généralement classés séparément comme speed pedelecs.
What is a pedelec in Belgium?
An ordinary Belgian pedelec is an electrically assisted bicycle with a maximum continuous rated motor power of no more than 250 W and pedal assistance ending by 25 km/h.
Is a pedelec legally a bicycle in Belgium?
Yes. Adding a compliant electric auxiliary motor of no more than 250 W with pedal assistance up to 25 km/h does not change the vehicle's legal classification as a bicycle.
Does the motor of a Belgian pedelec work without pedalling?
An ordinary electric bicycle in this category is equipped with pedal assistance, meaning that the motor provides assistance while the pedals are being used.
What happens when a Belgian pedelec reaches 25 km/h?
The electric assistance must be progressively reduced and stopped by 25 km/h. It must also stop earlier when the rider stops pedalling.
Can you ride a pedelec faster than 25 km/h?
Yes, using your own effort or when travelling downhill. The 25 km/h threshold limits the electric assistance rather than imposing a general maximum bicycle speed.
Do you need a driving licence for a pedelec in Belgium?
No. An ordinary electric bicycle within the 250 W and 25 km/h limits does not require a driving licence.
Is there a minimum age for riding an ordinary pedelec in Belgium?
No specific minimum age applies. An ordinary pedelec follows the same rules as a conventional bicycle.
Must a Belgian pedelec be registered?
No. An ordinary pedelec does not require DIV registration or a registration plate.
Does a Belgian pedelec need a certificate of conformity?
No. An ordinary 250 W electric bicycle with assistance up to 25 km/h does not require a certificate of conformity.
Does a Belgian pedelec require compulsory motor insurance?
No. Compulsory motor-vehicle liability insurance does not apply to an ordinary pedelec whose motor only provides compliant pedal assistance.
Is a helmet compulsory on a Belgian pedelec?
No. There is currently no general helmet requirement for an ordinary electric bicycle, although wearing a suitable bicycle helmet is recommended.
Must a pedelec use Belgian cycle paths?
Yes, under the same conditions as an ordinary bicycle. When an applicable and usable compulsory cycle path is provided, the rider must normally use it.
What equipment must a Belgian pedelec have?
Because it is legally a bicycle, it follows the ordinary bicycle equipment requirements concerning brakes, a bell, reflectors and lights when required.
What is the difference between a pedelec and a Belgian motorised cycle?
An ordinary pedelec is limited to 250 W and 25 km/h and has pedal assistance only. A motorised cycle may have up to 1000 W, remains limited to 25 km/h and requires a certificate of conformity.
What is the difference between a pedelec and a speed pedelec?
A speed pedelec may provide pedal assistance up to 45 km/h and have a motor of up to 4000 W. Unlike an ordinary pedelec, it requires registration, an appropriate driving licence and a helmet.
