Although the vast majority of electric bikes sold in France are pedelecs limited to 25 km/h, it is still possible to buy a fast electric bike, called a Speed Bike. The latter cannot legally ride on public roads without a number of constraints such as the obligation to have an electric bike registration. Discover how it works.
No registration needed up to 25 km/h
In France, the motor power of an electric bike is regulated at 250W. With assistance up to 25 km/h, it can circulate without problem on public roads and use bike lanes. In this case, you do not need to register a bike to use it legally in full legality.
However, some users find this speed limit frustrating. Because on a mechanical bike, you are not limited, except by the power of your legs, to ride at the pace you want.
Speedbike with assistance up to 45 km/h
If you have decided to use your electric bike to ride faster, it will then fall into the category of mopeds in the eyes of the law.
Like an electric scooter, you will no longer be able to use bike lanes with your fast electric bike.
Riding a 45 km/h pedelec speed bike provides an extraordinary riding sensation and offers multiplied travel possibilities! But it requires some trade-offs.
To be able to enjoy it safely but above all legally, it is important to know the key points to comply with regulations.
Mandatory insurance
So if your electric bike goes faster than the standard with electric assistance, or even if it is equipped with a throttle or accelerator trigger, you will have to register the bike.
Using a speed bike also requires subscribing to a specific 45 km/h two-wheeled motorized insurance. For information, it costs between €100 and €150 per year depending on insurance companies to subscribe to this type of coverage. At minimum, you will need to be covered by liability insurance for mopeds.
With this insurance certificate, you will be covered in the eyes of the law. This insurance also covers you when you are responsible for damage caused to third parties with your speed bike electric bike.
Helmet mandatory on fast electric bikes
In addition to all this, a bike helmet will also be mandatory to ride your fast electric bike. Just like gloves which must be approved. Not only for your bodily protection but to comply with the law.
How to register an electric bike?
To start the procedure for an electric bike registration, you will need to contact the authorized services to handle it. The application for a registration certificate is done exactly the same way as for a car.
For this, you have two options, either through the government website ANTS or through an online registration professional.
You will then be asked for the following documents to register an electric bike:
- the purchase invoice of the electric bike
- a proof of address (an internet bill, phone bill, electricity bill, housing tax, etc.)
- a valid identity document (ID card, passport, etc.)
- a European conformity certificate with the bike identification number on it
- the registration certificate application form (cerfa n° 13750*03) duly completed
You will thus obtain a Provisional Registration Certificate (CPI) allowing you to legally ride on public roads while waiting to receive your definitive registration certificate by mail. The electric bike registration number is indicated on the CPI.
Be careful because the registration plate is not provided by the electric bike manufacturer. You will have to obtain one yourself, as well as install it.
Conclusion
Traveling by electric bike is very economical financially. Despite the extra cost of the speed bike, as well as the impossibility to ride on bike lanes, you need to see if it is still interesting for you.
If you are a heavy rider and a fast electric bike becomes your number one means of transportation, then it can be very interesting. Then consider investing in a lock to better secure your two-wheeler.