A perfect electric bike ride is among the most unforgettable experiences. The city unfolding in front of you, with the gentle hum of the motor, gives you pure pleasure. However, this feeling can quickly vanish when you start worrying whether your bike is legal for the path you are riding.
Knowing what the best street-legal electric bikes are before buying one can eliminate this worry. The right e-bike opens doors to new adventures, a smooth commute, and helps you stay confident on the road, knowing that you do not have to constantly worry about facing local authorities.
What is a Street Legal Electric Bike?
For your electric bike for adults to be considered street legal, it must meet the strict EU regulations. For example, the motor should have a maximum of 250 watts and should cut off power at 25 kilometres per hour or more. E-bikes exceeding these motor or speed limits are regarded as mopeds or motorcycles.
Why Should You Buy a Street-Legal Electric Bike?
Riding a compliant model prevents legal troubles, fines, and penalties. The best e-bikes also follow high safety standards to minimise the risk of accidents.
In addition, street-legal e-bikes can use bicycle lanes. This is usually not the case with mopeds or motorcycles.
Remember that insurance and warranty protection apply to the bike when used according to its legal specifications. So, avoid any modifications that can void those protections.
How to Know Your E-Bike Meets Local Regulations?
Purchase e-bikes from trusted brands that advertise motor power and maximum speed on the package. Stay away from dealers who do not provide this information. For instance, many brands use labels to communicate their bikes' specifications to users so that they know what they are paying for beforehand.
Last but not least, ensure that the bike has reflectors and front and rear lights, particularly if you travel at night.
Best Street Legal Electric Bikes in 2025
Below are some of the best models in 2025 that balance performance, safety, and everyday usability.
ENGWE EP-2 Boost
The ENGWE EP-2 Boost fat-tire folding e-bike is a capable street-legal model. The powerful 250-watt motor and fat tires provide complete shock absorption for a much smoother ride with good grip for rough surfaces. The 48V 13Ah battery will get you up to 120km as well, so it is a great option for long rides. The folding design is useful for those who have limited storage.
ENGWE P275 SE
Designed for urban commuters who want a more efficient bike! The ENGWE P275 SE has a lightweight yet strong 6061 aluminium alloy frame and a total weight of 24 kg (53 pounds). The 250W motor has a torque sensor to offer a more natural and responsive experience. Moreover, the hydraulic disc brakes will perform in any weather condition, which can be extremely useful in city riding. With an impressive range of up to 100km on a single charge, integrated lights, and a rear rack, this is one of the best street-legal electric bikes in 2025.
Tenways CGO800S
The Tenways CGO800S has an elegant but simple design with minimal need for maintenance. It features a maintenance-free Gates carbon belt drive with a responsive Mivice torque sensor to deliver smooth, quiet, and intuitive rides. The lack of need for maintenance that goes with a chain is a huge advantage for daily urban commuters as it gives them one less thing to worry about.
This road-legal e-bike also comes with integrated lights, turn signals, and a rear rack. For those seeking a hassle-free but premium ride experience combined with aesthetic appeal, the Tenways CGO800S provides a great all-in-one solution.
Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2
The Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 comes with a 250Wh integrated battery and a discreet hub motor. It only weighs about 17 kg, so you can effortlessly ride and handle it even without the support from an electric motor. Moreover, its smart integration through the Hyena display and Cannondale app connectivity is an extra perk for those seeking modern functionality. If you also value natural feel over raw power or range, the Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 might be a great option.
ENGWE P275 ST
The ENGWE P275 ST is a road-legal, off-road-ready tourer for those who love to go on long-distance adventures. It is a standout model for the 250W class because of its Ananda mid-drive motor, which can produce an amazing torque of 70 Nm.
And when you combine it with the large 691Wh Samsung battery, which can offer up to 260 km of range, the ENGWE P275 ST can effortlessly handle long climbs on mixed surfaces. In fact, it rivals high-end mountain bikes with full-size 27.5 inch wheels and a solid 9-speed Shimano transmission.
Comparison Table
Here is a comprehensive comparison of each e-bike.
|
Model |
Motor Type & Power |
Top Speed |
Range (Claimed) |
|
ENGWE EP-2 Boost |
250W Hub |
25 km/h |
120 km |
|
ENGWE P275 SE |
250W Hub |
25 km/h |
100 km |
|
Tenways CGO800S |
250W Rear Hub |
25 km/h |
90-100 km |
|
Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 |
250W Hub |
25 km/h |
75 km |
|
ENGWE P275 ST |
250W Mid-Drive |
25 km/h |
150-260 km |
Other Riding Tips for Electric Bike Users
Owning a street-legal e-bike does not only mean knowing the laws; you also need to follow proper safety standards.
Buy a solid helmet and keep your e-bike serviced to prevent breakdowns and risk of head injuries in case of an accident.
Do not overcharge or let your battery die completely. The sweet spot is between 20%-80% for a long battery life.
When riding in traffic, follow the rules of the road just as you would if you were in a car.
Conclusion
There are many of the best street legal electric bikes currently available in the market, from fat-tyre ENGWE EP-2 Boost to off-road-ready ENGWE P275 ST. Choosing these means you will stay within the regulations and protect both you and the communities you are riding around.
FAQs
Are electric bikes street legal?
E-bikes that comply with EU standards for motor power and speed are street legal. You can ride them without registration, insurance, or a driving licence.
What is the legal top speed of an e-bike?
A street-legal e-bike has a top speed of 25 kph or 15.5 mph. This ensures safe riding conditions and keeps the bike compliant with EU transportation laws for public road use.
What happens if you get caught on an electric bike?
The police can fine you, seize the bike, or penalize you for riding without a licence. Non-compliance may also result in further legal consequences, depending on the situation.
