A class 2 electric bike is an e-bike that can move with both pedal assist and a throttle. That means you can ride it like a normal bicycle with motor support, or press the throttle and move without pedaling.
The speed is capped at 20 mph under U.S. rules. This limit keeps it in the “bicycle” category and not a scooter or motorcycle. Many riders like Class 2 models because they give you a choice: pedal when you want exercise, or use the throttle when you want an easy ride.
Class 2 bikes are one of three main ebike classes used to set speed and power rules. They are popular for commuting, city riding, and even light trails because of their mix of control and comfort.
Ebike Classes Explained – 1, 2, and 3
If you’re looking at e-bikes, you’ll see them split into three classes. The class tells you how the motor works, how fast it can push, and where the bike is allowed to go.
Electric Bike Class 1 2 3 Overview
- Class 1 – Pedal assist only. Motor helps while pedaling, stops at 20 mph. No throttle.
- Class 2 – Pedal assist and throttle. Motor cuts off at 20 mph, even if you don’t pedal.
- Class 3 – Pedal assist only, but faster. Motor works up to 28 mph. Often helmets and lights are required, sometimes an age limit too.
Class 1 vs Class 2 Electric Bike
Class 1 only works if you keep pedaling. Class 2 lets you use the throttle, so you can ride without moving your legs. That makes it easier for people who don’t want to sweat on the way to work, or who need a break from pedaling. Class 1 bikes are allowed on more paths. Class 2 rules change depending on the state or city, and it has the cheapest Class 2 electric bike.
Class 2 vs Class 3 Electric Bike
The difference is speed. Class 2 stops helping at 20 mph. Class 3 goes up to 28 mph. Class 3 feels quicker but comes with more rules. In many places you need a helmet, and some bike trails won’t allow them. Class 2 is slower but usually accepted in more areas.
Class 2 Electric Bike Laws
In the U.S., a class 2 electric bike is treated like a bicycle if the motor power is 750 watts or less and the class 2 electric bike speed is limited to 20 mph. That means you don’t need a license or registration at the federal level.
Each state can set its own rules on top of that. Some states let class 2 bikes ride in bike lanes or shared trails, while others only allow them on the road. In certain places, the throttle is not allowed on paths even if the bike meets the federal limit.
In the EU, the line is much tighter. To be seen as a bicycle, the motor must be 250 watts or under, it must stop helping at 25 km/h, and it can’t move the bike without pedaling. If a throttle is added, the bike is no longer classed as a bicycle, it becomes a moped, which means insurance, license, and plates are required.
Key point: a bike that’s legal and simple in one country may require registration and insurance in another. Riders should always check the local law before using a throttle bike on public roads or trails.
Types of Class 2 Electric Bikes
A class 2 electric bike gives you pedal assist and a throttle, so you can ride with or without pedaling. They come in different builds depending on whether you want trails, commuting, or off-road play. Here are some examples of the best Class 2 electric bike types available.
Class 2 Electric Mountain Bike
Built for trails and hills, these bikes mix strong motors, suspension, and fat tires. They are often called the best class 2 electric mountain bike because they handle rough ground while still staying under the 20 mph cap.
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ENGWE E26– Fat-tire e-MTB with front and rear suspension, 750W hub motor, throttle, and range that can top 60 miles.
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RadRover 6 Plus – One of the most used fat-tire mountain e-bikes in the U.S., 750W motor, hydraulic brakes, and about 45 miles of range.
Class 2 Folding Electric Bike
These bikes are made for commuters who need storage or train carry. A class 2 folding electric bike is compact but still gives full throttle up to 20 mph.
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ENGWE EP-2 Pro – This ENGWE electric bike has a Folding frame, a 750W motor, fat tires, and throttle assist for mixed city and light trail rides.
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Aventon Sinch.2 – Folding fat-tire model with a 750W hub motor, torque sensor for smoother pedal assist, and solid commuter range.
Class 2 Electric Dirt Bike
These are styled more like mopeds, with more torque for dirt paths. A class 2 electric dirt bike keeps the 20 mph limit but has stronger frames and shocks for rough use.
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ENGWE M20 – This ENGWE ebike has dual suspension, fat tires, a throttle to 20 mph, and an optional dual battery for longer runs.
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Super73 Z-Miami – Compact motorcycle-style e-bike, 750W motor, 20 mph throttle, and a tough frame for dirt or street.
Conclusion
A class 2 electric bike is simple: pedal when you want, throttle when you don’t. The motor helps up to 20 mph, then it stops. That’s the rule. People use them for different reasons. Some for work rides, some for trails, others just for fun. Folding ones fit in tight spaces. Fat-tire ones roll better on dirt and gravel.
Rules vary by region. In the U.S., they’re usually treated like bicycles. In Europe, adding a throttle often reclassifies them as mopeds. Always check before riding. If you want a mix of comfort, speed, and easy riding without a license or plates, class 2 is the middle ground most riders go for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a class 2 electric bike?
It’s an e-bike with both pedal assist and a throttle. You can ride it like a bike and get help while pedaling, or just press the throttle and cruise. The motor cuts off at 20 mph.
How fast can a class 2 e-bike go?
The law says 20 mph max on motor power. That’s the legal limit. You can go faster downhill or by pedaling harder, but the motor won’t assist beyond 20 mph.
Are class 2 electric bikes legal everywhere?
No, and that’s where people get tripped up. In the U.S. most states let you use them, but rules for paths and trails change from place to place. In the EU, if it has a throttle, it’s usually counted as a moped.
What is the best class 2 electric bike?
“Best” depends on the rider. If you live in the city, a folding bike makes sense. If you want trails, fat tires and suspension matter. Beginners might want cheap, simple builds. There isn’t one bike for everyone.
What’s the cheapest class 2 electric bike?
The cheapest Class 2 e-bikes are usually small folding models with basic motors and short ranges. They won’t have big batteries or fancy parts, but they get you throttle and assist for everyday use without spending a fortune.
