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

**What is a speed pedelec ** A speed pedelec is a type of electric bicycle with a power output of up to 4kW. 'Pedelec' is a contraction of the words 'PEDal ELECtrical Cycle'. Because a speed pedelec smoothly reaches speeds of up to 45 km/h, the same traffic rules apply as for mopeds:

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  You must be at least 16 years old to drive a speedpedelec.
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  A speedpedelec must have a licence plate.
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  You must register your speedpedelec with the Vehicle Registration Service.
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  You must have a driving licence (car or moped).
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  You must wear a helmet.
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  You may not transport children under the age of three.
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  You may only transport children between the ages of three and eight with an appropriate restraint system.

**An electric bike vs a speed pedelec ** The big difference between a speed pedelec and a 'normal' electric bike is the speed. An e-bike only goes up to 25 km/h and is legally considered a bicycle. Unlike speedpedelecs, no stricter rules apply to an electric bike.

**On the road or on the cycle path? ** With a speed pedelec, you may use the bicycle path or the carriageway if the maximum permitted speed is 50 km/h there. Is the maximum permitted speed higher than 50 km/h? Then you are obliged to use the bicycle path. In addition, pay attention to traffic signs with the symbol of a moped and the letter P, as these are specifically intended for speed pedelecs. They may, for example, oblige or forbid you to use the cycle path, allow you to ride in the opposite direction in a one-way street or to ride on a towpath.

**Insurance for speedpedelec sometimes mandatory ** If your speedpedelec can propel itself autonomously without pedal assistance, then third-party moped insurance is mandatory. In all other cases, family BA insurance is sufficient.

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