The 10 Fastest Electric Bikes This Year

Can you imagine your bike hitting speeds of up to 80mph? Would it be adrenaline-inducing fun or sheer madness?

For an electric bike to be legally roadworthy it won’t go any faster than 28mph using the motor-assist function in the United States. In Europe, it is even lower with a 20mph maximum, and even 15mph in some countries.

If you have ever ridden an electric bike, you will know that this feels pretty fast as it is. Real care is needed when riding at these speeds. You don’t want to be heading out without a helmet and, ideally, some other protective gear.

Mega adrenalin junkies, organized racers, collectors of high-speed vehicles, and those with access to private land might consider something that goes beyond road-legal options. There are a few models that push the limits of the speeds that can be achieved on a humble bike frame.

Fastest Street-Legal eBikes Comparison

Image	Product
EDITOR'S CHOICE	EDITOR'S CHOICE	Juiced RipCurrent S Fat bike style suited to handling a variety of terrain Includes a thumb throttle assist option Powerful motor for speed and efficiency	Fat bike style suited to handling a variety of terrain Includes a thumb throttle assist option Powerful motor for speed and efficiency	VIEW LATEST PRICE
		Ride1Up LMT'D Fantastic value at a low price point Lightweight, but fairly high weight capacity Digital LCD display + speedometer	Fantastic value at a low price point Lightweight, but fairly high weight capacity Digital LCD display + speedometer	VIEW LATEST PRICE
		Delfast Prime 2.0 Guinness World Record Distance - 245 miles on a single charge Incredible power and best in class battery Top of the line craftsmanship	Guinness World Record Distance - 245 miles on a single charge Incredible power and best in class battery Top of the line craftsmanship	VIEW BEST PRICE
		Juiced Scorpion Amazing retro styling and tons of fun Very solid motor + battery combo Versatile, with great suspension and adjustability	Amazing retro styling and tons of fun Very solid motor + battery combo Versatile, with great suspension and adjustability	VIEW BEST PRICE
		Bakcou Mule Fast off-road eBike Very comfortable for trail riding Built to last	Fast off-road eBike Very comfortable for trail riding Built to last	VIEW BEST PRICE
		Ride1Up Core 5 Very budget-friendly Light and fast Good range and acceleration	Very budget-friendly Light and fast Good range and acceleration	VIEW BEST PRICE
		Surface 604 Shred Power and speed on a budget Good starter eMTB Versatile	Power and speed on a budget Good starter eMTB Versatile	VIEW BEST PRICE

What are Speed Pedelecs?

If you want a fast e-bike for legal use on roads in the United States, then you want to opt for a Class 3 Speed Pedelec. Bikes are classified from 1 to 3, depending on their motor size and achievable speeds.  

Class 3 means that the engine size can go up to 750w. For Class 1 and 2, the maximum motor size is usually 250w.

S-pedelecs can reach up to 28mph using pedal-assist mode. For Class 1 and 2, they can only go up to a maximum of 20mph using pedal assist, or in the case of Class 2, also using throttle power.

You should always check the local laws regarding e-bike classification. Some states don’t follow the above guidelines, and in Europe, the laws are even stricter.

The People for Bikes website is an excellent and up to date resource for local State rules and variations.

Our focus will be on providing you with some guidance on some of the best road legal Speed Pedelecs available on the market at the moment…but we’ve snuck in the absolute fastest in the world as well, just in case you feel like going crazy.

How Fast Can an E-Bike Actually Go?  

We know you will be curious about how far electric bikes can be pushed in terms of speed. The top 3 on our list will be some of the fastest electric bike in the world out there right now. Don’t forget that these are not off-the-shelf models that you can take straight out on the road.  

These have been developed to impress, push the boundaries of technology and design, break records and hit the headlines. They come with a pretty hefty price tag too.

One of the bikes featured could potentially hit the heady heights of 80mph, but this would be a pretty hairy ride.

If you already have a good quality standard bike, it is even possible to make your own super-fast electric version. This involves buying a motor conversion kit.  

We wouldn’t recommend this, though, unless you understand and abide by the classification regulations and you take appropriate safety precautions. Converting your bike takes time, and it can be technically complex. A lot of people opt to get help from an expert when fitting it.

What Else to Look For in a Fast Electric Bike

If you are purchasing a road-legal speed pedelec, you shouldn’t just look for the fastest models.  There are lots of other factors that should influence your decision, including what you plan to use the bike for and what your budget is.

For reviews 4 – 10 below, which are the road-legal speed pedelecs, we have also looked at some other criteria when making our decision about which ones to feature.  These include: 

• Value for money – E-bikes vary significantly in their pricing.  Speed pedelecs with their bigger motor are often at the higher end of the price scale.  We look at a range of budgets and want to make sure that they are offering the best value for their price bracket
• Motor efficiency – We compare the power, efficiency and level of smoothness of the motors.  They are often more powerful than those on a Class 1 or 2 model.
• Battery efficiency –  We compare the batteries in terms of their efficiency, power and charging speeds
• Overall performance – How do the bikes cope on the ascents and descents? How do they handle, what is their suspension like?  What is their weight capacity?
• Reputation – How does the brand stack up against its competitors.  Are they known for producing robust, high performing bikes?

The Three Fastest eBikes in the World

If you have ever wondered what it feels like to travel faster than a cheetah on a pedal-assisted bike, the Swind EB-01, which launched in 2018, could help you achieve this.

Manufactured by an advanced tech team involved in developing products for Supercar and Formula One participants, you know you can geek out over the specification.

With a whopping 15kw of near-silent motor power, it is no surprise that its official top speed is 60 mph. By way of comparison, most top speed pedelecs have a maximum motor size of 750w. The developer has even claimed that, with a little modification, it could potentially reach the dizzying heights of 80mph. This has, however, yet to be put to the test.

The battery is a doozy too. It can go for up to 80 miles and charges in a super fast 90 minutes, whereas most standard e-bikes take at least four hours for a full charge.

These bikes are, unsurprisingly, made to order and will set you back a mere $20,000 plus taxes. It’s a steal!

High Power Cycles have a stellar reputation as one of the best, and most advanced, high power e-bike developers in the United States, and further afield.

Their 2019 Revolution model tops the speedometer at an eye-watering 55mph. It has an impressive pedal assist range of 50 miles, on its 5,000w motor, and a seriously fast acceleration speed.

Again, you will have a three-month wait for this baby, and it will cost you almost $10,000 for the privilege.

Australian company Stealth has been at the forefront of high powered e-bikes for several years now.  There are now several companies that have e-bikes that can reach the dizzying heights of 50mph, but Stealth was one of the first.

The Stealth B-52 has a 6,200w motor and a 2,000wh battery and has a range of up to 60 miles.  It is pretty heavy, weighing in at 51kg but, let’s face it – the bike will be doing all the work for you anyway!

For such a speed monster, it even has a more attainable price point of under $7,000.

Fastest Street-Legal Electric Bike Reviews

Specs

What We Loved

A lot of the other bikes we have reviewed for their speed are road bikes (below). The RipCurrent S is a fat bike style. The wider tires and suspension means it will be more versatile for covering different terrain and it’s very comfortable.

And when you’re looking for the most speed, a bit of extra versatility and safety with some fat tires may be welcome.

Between the RipCurrent S and it’s baby brother, the RipCurrent (cheaper, but a slightly lower range), you’ve got insane value. A great price, a gorgeous fat bike, and tons of speed.

Despite the price, is it has a surprisingly high-end specification.  You are getting hydraulic brakes, a very powerful motor that will help power you up hills, a 1000 Watt-Hours battery for going the distance, and comfortable suspension.

Hydraulic brakes are needed on such a heavy bike, and the Star-Union ones provided here are effective.

Another bike with throttle assist option, so if you are doing some hilly off-roading, this can be a beneficial addition.

It is available in 3 size options to help you find the most comfortable riding position.

Why it Might Not Work For You

This bike is a bit of a brick. It is the heaviest we have reviewed. While a lot of this is because of the tire style, large battery and solid frame, it will not be the best choice for zippy commuting.

The weight and frame style means it is better suited for using if you are likely to be dealing with a variety of terrain. 

Verdict 

For a comfortable and versatile ride, at a great price, that easily gets up to max speed, the RipCurrent ticks the boxes. If you are looking for something quicker off the block and easy to transport, then keep reading below for more reviews.

>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on JuicedBikes.com <<

Specs

What We Loved

It seems crazy what you get for under $2,000, which is why we’re calling this our #2 choice.

If the fat bike above isn’t your style, then why not pick up the Ride1Up LMT’D? Much more nimble, way lighter, great speed, good components…and yeah, that cheap price tag is pretty nice.

These are super comfortable front-suspension bikes that hardly even look like eBikes, thanks to their slim and attractive design.

For such a light and cheap bike, it’s got a surprisingly high weight capacity of 300 pounds, allowing some heavier riders to use this as a great commuter.

The digital LCD display and speedometer is a nice add-on, and you can even choose the style of handlebars you prefer – Commuters or Risers.

Why it Might Not Work For You

It’s somewhat basic (expected for the price point), doesn’t have the highest level components (again, expected), and it doesn’t have the farthest range (50 miles is if you use pedal assist on low setting…it’s more like 25 if you’re using throttle or high powered pedal assist.

Verdict

If you want to push the limits and get up to 28 mph safely and quickly, without spending a ton of money, the Ride1Up LMT’D is one of the best choices you can make. It won’t give you every luxury, but it’ll get you on the road quickly and in style.

>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on Ride1Up.com <<

Specs

What We Loved

For lovers of long-distance riding or those that use their e-bike for commercial purposes, you can’t get better than the Delfast 2.0.  Really – you can’t.  This bike entered the Guinness World Records for having the longest e-bike range!

You can get up to 245 miles on one charge.  This smashes the competition out of the water.  Even if you’re riding at the top speed of 28mph the whole time, you still get an impressive maximum range of over 100 mph.  

The bike has the type of high-end specification you would expect from one in this price bracket.  You’ll get a smooth and comfortable ride courtesy of the quality front and rear shock absorbers, and the uber-powerful 1500w motor will carry you up inclines with ease and ensure a good burst of acceleration too.

The unique carbon drive belt drive is built to last, helps provide a quiet ride, and won’t require the maintenance a traditional style will.  You can even wash it down with water.

It’s also a bonus, given the price of the bike, that it has additional security features like an alarm, GPS and motion sensors, and a rear-wheel immobilizer.

Additional upgraded customization is also possible if you’re happy to shell out some more cash.  If you want a more comfortable bench-style seat or fat tires for off-roading, these can be requested at the time of ordering.  

For the biggest speed demons, Delfast even has a model (the Top 3.0) that can hit top speeds of 50mph and still has an impressive 174-mile maximum range.  These crazy top speeds mean the bike won’t be legally rideable on public trails and roads, though, so isn’t suited to most riders.

Why it Might Not Work For You

This bike is in the top bracket in terms of price, and unless you really do need the extended range capacity, it will be difficult to justify the spend.

Weighing a whopping 132lbs, this is especially true if you like to hop on and off public transport or transport your bike to trails or on vacation.  The weight has to be expected, given that it has a huge 48V 70 Ah battery, but it certainly doesn’t make this bike easy to move around when the motor isn’t in use. 

If you like a sleek and streamlined bike, you’re not getting that with the Delfast Prime either.  They do a good job considering the chunky frame and massive battery, but it isn’t a subtle option, and if you like a model that can almost pass as a non e-bike, this isn’t for you.

Verdict 

If you’re a long-distance cycling enthusiast or you plan to use an e-bike for commercial courier purposes or something similar, investing in the Delfast Prime 2.0 could be worthwhile.  For everyone else, though, spending less and buying a lighter bike would be a more sensible option…but if you love this bike, you’re not likely one for choosing the sensible option, anyway!

>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on DelfastBikes.com <<

Specs

What We Loved

The Juiced Scorpion won’t be for everyone, but for riders looking for a solid and comfortable bike with a good burst of power, it ticks a lot of boxes when you consider the price.

This bike doesn’t look like a traditional e-bike.  It has been designed to be reminiscent of a 1970s low-ride motorbike.  The handlebars are positioned high, the seat is low, and it’s likely to appeal to vintage-loving cyclists.

It also means you’re in for a comfy ride – even if you manage to take it up towards its top speed of 28 mph.  It has a long padded seat, the handlebars have plenty of adjustability, and the chunky fat tires will absorb the bumps in the road well.  On top of all this, it also has sophisticated dual suspension.

The powerful battery and generous 750w motor mean it has a good punch of power and acceleration, and the 45 + miles range should be fine for most city riders.

Why it Might Not Work For You

Not everyone will like the low-ride design.  Tall riders may find that it impacts on comfort and smooth riding capability, and it isn’t the sort of design that will work for technical off-roading.

It’s also another heavy bike.  Weighing in at 100lbs, you aren’t going to find it easy to move this whopper around when the motor isn’t powering.

The powerful battery isn’t exactly conspicuous on the frame either.

Verdict 

Stylish, comfortable and powerful, the Juiced Scorpion looks cool and offers a lot of bang for your buck.  The retro low-ride design won’t be to everyone’s taste, the hefty frame is a tad cumbersome, and pedaling without battery assist is a lot of effort, but…it’s damn cool and goes fast!

>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on JuicedBikes.com <<

Specs

What We Loved

Despite being an e-bike designed for being ridden off-road and carrying heavy loads, this bike is considerably lighter than the likes of the Juiced Scorpion and the Delfast.  

This is a bonus if you have to lift it over a stream or a fence when you’re out in backcountry.  It’s especially handy if you run out of battery on a particularly long trip as it means that pedal power alone isn’t too back-breaking.

The bike is powerful, fast, smooth and quiet (it has a 750w mid-drive motor) – perfect for steep uphill sections, and you’ll be less likely to disturb the wildlife you might be tracking.  

It’s also very comfortable and perfect for bumpy off-roading.  The Mule has quality suspension, a shock-absorbing seat post, responsive hydraulic brakes, and high-quality fat tires.

Why it Might Not Work For You

With a top speed of 35mph this bike, you won’t be able to ride this bike on public roads and trails legally.  It really is designed for backcountry use in private grounds.

The biggest stumbling block when it comes to the Mule is its price.  There’s no arguing with the fact that this is a solid bike, but it’s debatable whether it offers the best value for money.   Bafang motors, for example, are perfectly functional, but they’re generic motors rather than top of the range.  When you’re paying over $4,000, small things like this are worth considering. 

Verdict 

Powerful, comfortable and practical, this bike is a great option for off-roading hunters.  It isn’t the cheapest option out there, though, and you’re going to be limited by road laws on where you can legally use this fast e-bike.

>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on eBikeGeneration.com <<

Specs

What We Loved

If you’re looking for an affordable but fast bike that offers great value for money, you can’t go wrong with the Ride1Up Core 5.

Unlike a lot of the other bikes reviewed here, the frame is sleek, minimalist and surprisingly lightweight – especially when you consider it’s only just over $1,000!

At just 48lbs, it’s much more portable and practical than the likes of the Delfast or the Juiced Scorpion.  This, combined with the quality high-pressure tires mean that riding this bike without any electrical assistance will be a pleasure rather than a chore.

Plus it still has a reasonable 40-mile range and decent acceleration courtesy of the 500w motor.

Why it Might Not Work For You

For such a reasonable price, you’ll have to expect some compromises.  Unlike some of the pricier models, there are no sophisticated hydraulic brakes on this bike.  If you’re pushing up towards its top speed of 28 mph, you could find the mechanical disc brakes a little less responsive and consistent.

This bike isn’t going to offer a smooth ride on bumpy surfaces either.  There’s no suspension, and the tires aren’t designed for any sort of off-roading.

Verdict 

The Core 5 is affordable, sleek, well-designed and not too heavy.  For an entry-level e-bike that has the power to take you up to decent speeds quickly, this has a lot going for it.

>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on Ride1Up.com <<

Specs

What We Loved

This hard-tail electric mountain bike has a lot going for it.  For starters, it’s really affordable.  Although it’s more pricey than the Ride1Up Core 5, it offers a lot more versatility.

It can be ridden comfortably off-road, the hydraulic brakes are incredibly responsive, and the wide tires give you confidence in terms of traction and stability.  Plus the suspension fork makes a difference when you’re on bumpy terrain too.

The Shred is also pretty versatile.  The frame shape means it offers a comfortable ride even if you plan to use it for a spot of cruising or commuting too.

Why it Might Not Work For You

More expensive hard-tail mountain bikes utilize mid-drive motors as they offer better balance and help negotiate steep climbs more smoothly.  The Shred uses a 500w rear hub motor.  It still does the job well enough, but for more advanced off-roaders, this could prove limiting.

Verdict 

For a starter electric mountain bike, the Shred offers plenty of versatility, speed, power, responsiveness and comfort.  It’s just not designed with the most technical riding in mind.

>> Tap Here to Read More Reviews and See Today’s Price on BikeBerry.com <<