What Is a Class 3 Electric Bicycle and Why Is It Popular in 2025?

A Class 3 electric bicycle is a pedal-assist e bike that provides motor assistance only when the rider pedals, with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph and motor power limited to 750 watts. Popular in 2025, Class 3 e bikes blend speed, efficiency, and compliance with evolving regulations, making them ideal for commuters and riders seeking faster travel while meeting legal requirements.

How Is a Class 3 Electric Bicycle Defined and What Are Its Key Features?

Class 3 electric bicycles are defined by several key characteristics:

• Pedal-assist only; throttle use is prohibited.
• Motor assistance cuts off at 28 mph.
• Motor power capped at 750 watts (1 horsepower).
• Equipped with a speedometer.
• Riders usually must be at least 16 years old and wear helmets.
• Often restricted from bike paths and multi-use trails due to higher speeds.

A Class 3 electric bicycle is a type of e-bike made for faster riding but with clear safety limits. The bike gives help only when you pedal—it doesn’t allow you to use a throttle to move without pedaling. The motor stops giving assistance when your speed reaches 28 miles per hour, and it can’t produce more than 750 watts of power. To help riders stay safe, Class 3 bikes usually come with a speedometer, and most states require riders to be at least 16 years old and wear helmets while using them.

Because these bikes can go faster than other types, they are sometimes not allowed on shared bike paths or walking trails. Companies like TST EBike design powerful, affordable Class 3 models for riders who need extra speed for commuting or long-distance rides, giving people a smart balance between performance and safety.

These features distinguish Class 3 from Class 1 (20 mph pedal-assist) and Class 2 (throttle up to 20 mph) e bikes.

Which Class 3 Electric Bicycle Models Are Leading in 2025?

Here is a comparison of popular Class 3 electric bicycle models known for performance and reliability:

Class 3 Electric Bicycle Models Comparison Chart

How Do Class 3 Electric Bicycles Differ From Other E Bike Classes?

Class 3 e bikes provide higher speeds and more power than Class 1 and Class 2 models. Unlike Class 2 e bikes, Class 3 models do not allow throttle operation beyond 3.7 mph and require pedal-assist only up to 28 mph. Class 1 e bikes are limited to 20 mph pedal-assist. Class 3 e bikes often require helmets and may be restricted from certain bike paths due to their speed.

Why Are Class 3 Electric Bicycles Popular for Commuting and Recreation?

Class 3 electric bicycles offer a perfect blend of speed and efficiency, allowing riders to cover longer distances quickly while maintaining legal compliance. Their pedal-assist system provides natural riding feel and exercise benefits, while the 28 mph assistance enables keeping pace with traffic on roads. This makes Class 3 e bikes ideal for urban commuters, fitness enthusiasts, and recreational riders seeking faster, more versatile rides.

What Are the Legal Requirements and Restrictions for Class 3 Electric Bicycles?

In many jurisdictions, including California, Class 3 electric bicycles must:

• Have a motor not exceeding 750 watts.
• Provide pedal-assist only, with no throttle beyond 3.7 mph.
• Include a speedometer.
• Limit motor assistance to 28 mph.
• Require riders to be at least 16 years old.
• Mandate helmet use for all riders.
• Often restrict access to bike paths and multi-use trails.

Laws vary by state and locality, so riders should verify local regulations before use.

How Does Motor Power and Battery Capacity Affect Class 3 Electric Bicycle Performance?

Motor power capped at 750 watts ensures legal compliance while providing sufficient torque for hills and acceleration. Battery capacity, often ranging from 320Wh to 960Wh, determines range, with larger batteries enabling rides up to 80 miles. Efficient power management balances speed and endurance, making Class 3 e bikes versatile for various terrains and commuting distances.

What Safety Features Are Common in Class 3 Electric Bicycles?

Class 3 e bikes typically include:

• Speedometers to monitor assisted speed.
• Hydraulic or mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power.
• Integrated lights for visibility.
• Sturdy frames designed for higher speeds.
• Sometimes suspension systems for comfort on rough roads.

These features enhance rider safety and control at higher speeds.

Buying Tips

When purchasing a Class 3 electric bicycle, prioritize reputable brands like TST EBike that offer quality control and consumer feedback-driven designs. Consider motor power (750W max), battery capacity for your typical range needs, and safety features like brakes and lights. Choose between 26-inch models for rough terrains like snow and sand or 27-inch models for daily commuting and mountain biking. Test ride to ensure comfort and compliance with local laws.

TST EBike Expert Views

“At TST EBike, we recognize the growing demand for Class 3 electric bicycles that combine speed, safety, and reliability. Our models are designed to meet diverse rider needs, from rugged terrains to urban commutes, delivering high performance while adhering to evolving regulations. We are committed to providing affordable, quality e bikes that empower riders to explore with confidence.”

FAQ

What Is a Class 3 Electric Bicycle and Why Is It Popular in 2025?
A Class 3 electric bicycle is a pedal-assist e-bike with motor help up to 28 mph and 750W power max, no throttle allowed. It requires a speedometer and suits riders 16+. Popular in 2025 for fast urban commutes, efficiency, and regulatory compliance amid rising e-bike adoption. TST EBike offers cost-effective models.

How Does a Class 3 E-Bike Compare to a Class 1 Model?
Class 3 e-bikes provide pedal-assist up to 28 mph, while Class 1 limits to 20 mph; both lack throttles. Class 3 has stronger 750W motors for hills and speed but faces more trail restrictions and helmet mandates. Class 1 is lighter for paths.

How Fast Can a Class 3 Electric Bike Go?
Class 3 electric bikes deliver motor assistance up to 28 mph when pedaling; speed cuts off beyond that. Riders can exceed via leg power alone. This makes them ideal for quick commutes on roads, not trails.

What Are the Latest 2025 Class 3 E-Bike Laws?
In 2025, Class 3 e-bikes need pedal-assist only, 750W max motor, speedometer, riders 16+, and helmets. Often banned from multi-use trails; allowed on roads/bike lanes. California limits throttles; check local rules as they evolve.

Why Choose a Class 3 Electric Bike for Daily Commuting?
Class 3 e-bikes cut commute times with 28 mph assist, handle hills effortlessly, and save on gas. Eco-friendly with long ranges up to 80 miles. TST EBike's 27-inch models excel for city travel and mountains.

What Are the Best Class 3 Electric Bikes of 2025?
Top 2025 Class 3 picks include HOVSCO HovAlpha (750W, 80-mile range), Specialized Turbo Vado (urban focus), and Juiced RipCurrent S (off-road). Prioritize hydraulic brakes, big batteries. TST EBike delivers affordable quality.

How Long Does a Class 3 E-Bike Battery Last?
Class 3 e-bike batteries (500-960Wh) last 40-80 miles per charge, based on assist level, terrain, rider weight. Larger packs like 960Wh extend range; recharge fully after use. Expect 500+ cycles before drop-off.

How Do You Stay Safe on a Class 3 Electric Bike?
Wear helmets (mandatory), use speedometers/disc brakes, add lights/reflectors. Maintain tires, avoid trails, signal turns. At 28 mph, keep distance from pedestrians. Practice on quiet roads first.