There’s a reason more riders are turning to a class 3 ebike when they want a little more speed in their day. It’s not just about getting from A to B faster — it’s about doing it in comfort, with a bike that feels steady and easy to ride. In Europe, these bikes are built to meet strict rules on speed and motor size, so you can enjoy the extra push without worrying about breaking the law.
From the busy streets of Berlin to the winding lanes of rural France, their presence is hard to miss. In the next few sections, we’ll walk through what makes them stand out and share the top class 3 ebikes models worth considering in 2025.
What is a Class 3 Ebike?
So, what is a class 3 ebike exactly? Picture your regular electric bike, but with a little more kick when you’re pedaling. An ebike class 3 is built to help you reach higher cruising speeds without making the ride feel like a workout. It’s still you doing the pedaling — the motor just gives that extra nudge to keep things smooth and quick.
The definition shifts depending on where you live. In the US, a Class 3 can legally hit around 45 km/h (28 mph) with pedal assist, though rules change from one state to another. In Europe, the bar is set lower: these bikes have to stick to 25 km/h and a motor no stronger than 250W if you want to stay within the law.
That way, you still get a faster ride than a traditional bike, but one that keeps you on the safe side of EU regulations.
Best Class 3 Ebikes for 2025 – Our Picks
If you’ve been eyeing the best class 3 ebikes, you’ll know the market is busy with options. But not all of them feel right for everyday use in Europe. Here are six that manage to balance comfort, style, and legal performance — without cutting corners.
ENGWE EP-2 Boost – Small Frame, Big Versatility
At first glance, the ENGWE EP-2 Boost looks compact, but it handles like a full-size bike. The 250W motor works quietly with a torque sensor, so the power builds naturally as you pedal. Wide 20-inch fat tires provide steady grip on wet tarmac and dusty paths alike. A removable 48V battery can stretch up to 120 km if you keep assistance low. The best part? It folds, so you can tuck it away in a flat or car boot without wrestling for space.
ENGWE M20 – Head-Turner with Comfort to Match
The ENGWE M20 doesn’t try to blend in. Its motorcycle-style frame stands out, but it’s the ride that sells it. Full suspension smooths out bumps, and the fat tires grip without feeling sluggish. You can run it on one battery or add a second for longer days out. With Shimano’s 7-speed gears and a solid alloy build, it’s equally happy weaving through traffic or coasting along a quiet back road.
ENGWE P275 Pro – Built for the Commute
Some bikes feel like they were designed in a hurry — the ENGWE P275 Pro isn’t one of them. It uses a 250W Bafang mid-drive motor that feeds power through a Gates carbon belt, meaning less maintenance and no chain grease on your trousers. Hydraulic disc brakes bring you to a confident stop, and on low assist, you can ride for up to 260 km before charging. For anyone doing longer daily runs, it’s a practical, polished choice.
ENGWE L20 Boost – Everyday Strength
The ENGWE L20 Boost feels dependable from the first ride. Its 250W motor pairs with a torque sensor for a smooth start, and the 48V battery holds enough for around 126 km. The 20-inch fat tires make uneven paving less of a chore, while Shimano’s 7-speed setup helps on mild climbs. The LCD display keeps your ride info clear without overcomplicating things.
Aventon Aventure 3 – A Bike for Mixed Plans
Some days you’ll be in the city, others you’ll wander off it — the Aventon Aventure 3 is ready for both. Wide tires and a suspension fork keep things comfortable on patchy roads, and the clean frame hides the battery neatly. It’s straightforward to ride and doesn’t require a learning curve, which makes it a good fit for new e-bike riders too.
Electra Townie Go – Relaxed and Simple
If all you want is a calm ride without rushing, the Electra Townie Go is perfect. The upright seating and step-through frame make it easy to hop on, even in casual clothes. Pedal assist is gentle, just enough to make headwinds and inclines less of a bother. It’s an easygoing choice for anyone who values comfort over speed.
Class 2 vs Class 3 Ebike – Key Differences
When comparing a class 2 vs class 3 ebike, the main distinctions come down to speed limits, throttle availability, and legal access to certain roads or paths. These differences are especially important in Europe, where regulations are tighter than in places like the United States.
|
Feature |
Class 2 Ebike |
Class 3 Ebike |
|
Pedal Assist Limit |
Up to 25 km/h in the EU |
Up to 25 km/h in the EU |
|
Throttle Use |
Often includes a throttle in US models; throttles are restricted or not allowed on public roads in most EU countries |
Generally pedal-assist only in EU; throttles may be restricted depending on local laws |
|
Motor Power (EU) |
Max 250W |
Max 250W |
|
Typical Use Cases |
Leisure rides, casual commuting, short-distance errands |
Faster commuting, longer rides, more consistent speed on open roads |
|
Where They’re Allowed (EU) |
Same as bicycles if compliant with EU specs |
Same as bicycles if compliant, but may face extra local rules in some cities |
|
US Differences |
Can reach ~32 km/h (20 mph) with throttle |
Can reach ~45 km/h (28 mph) with pedal assist in US (not EU-legal) |
How Fast Does a Class 3 Ebike Go?
If you’ve ever wondered about class 3 ebike speed, the short answer in Europe is: not as fast as you might think. By law, a Class 3 model can only give you motor assistance up to 25 km/h. The moment you hit that mark, the motor stops helping, and it’s all down to your legs. The rule keeps e-bikes in the same legal group as regular bicycles, meaning no registration, license plate, or insurance is needed.
So, how fast does a class 3 ebike go if you push it harder? In theory, you can ride faster than 25 km/h, but that would be entirely on your own pedaling power. In the US, Class 3 e-bikes can assist up to roughly 45 km/h (28 mph), but those speeds aren’t legal for public roads in the EU.
In most European countries, tampering with the speed limiter is taken seriously. You could be fined, have your bike reclassified as a moped, or even be required to insure and register it — all of which remove the convenience that makes an e-bike appealing in the first place. It’s why most riders stick to the legal setup: it’s simpler, safer, and keeps you out of trouble.
Why ENGWE Stands Out in the Class 3 Ebike Market
It’s one thing to make a fast e-bike. It’s another to build one that fits perfectly within Europe’s riding rules while still feeling exciting to own. That’s where ENGWE has carved its space.
EU Compliance Without Compromise
Every ENGWE Class 3 model is tuned to stay within EU regulations — a 250W motor, pedal-assist limit of 25 km/h, and components designed for public road safety. You get the freedom to ride almost anywhere in Europe without needing registration, special insurance, or extra paperwork.
Comfort That Lasts All Day
ENGWE doesn’t treat comfort as an afterthought. The bikes come with thoughtful touches — adjustable saddles, well-placed handlebars, and frames that balance stability with agility. Whether it’s the fat tires on the ENGWE EP-2 Boost or the refined commuter setup on the ENGWE P275 Pro, the riding position feels natural from the first pedal stroke.
Safety and Quality, Built In
From strong, reliable braking systems to frames that can take daily use, ENGWE focuses on giving riders confidence. Integrated lights, reflective details, and durable materials mean you’re not just buying a good-looking bike — you’re getting one that holds up in real-world conditions.
Seasonal and First-Time Buyer Savings
While ENGWE keeps its focus on quality, it also rewards its customers with promotions. New buyers often get special offers, and big shopping seasons like Black Friday, Mother’s Day, and Christmas bring generous discounts.
Just so there’s no confusion — ENGWE only deals in brand-new bikes. You won’t find second-hand or refurbished stock here. Every bike comes straight from the factory, backed by its warranty.
Conclusion: Ready to Ride Smarter and Faster?
Class 3 e-bikes offer a rare mix of speed and comfort. They make daily trips quicker without taking away the easy, relaxed feel of cycling. In Europe, they still follow the 25 km/h and 250W limits, so you can ride freely without worrying about licenses or extra paperwork.
ENGWE builds on these strengths, creating bikes that feel solid, look great, and handle real-world use with ease. Whether you’re cutting through city traffic or rolling along quiet weekend roads, there’s an ENGWE model that fits the way you ride.
See what the right bike can do for you — explore ENGWE’s ebike range and pick the one that makes every ride a reason to get out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ebike class 1 2 3?
Class 1? Pedal assist only — stops helping at 25 km/h. Class 2? Similar, but in some countries, you get a throttle (not allowed on EU public roads). Class 3? Still capped at 25 km/h here, but built to feel stronger and hold speed more easily when you’re pedaling.
Are class 3 ebikes legal in all EU countries?
Yes — provided they stick to the EU’s 250W motor limit and 25 km/h assist cap. That said, a few cities or regions add their own quirks to the rules. If you’re visiting somewhere new, it’s worth checking before you roll in.
How many chain links are on an ENGWE M20 ebike?
Most ENGWE M20 setups use a chain with 116 links. If you’re swapping it out, don’t just guess — count the links on your current one or check the official ENGWE spec sheet. It saves you from buying the wrong size.
