E-Bike Laws and Regulations: Your Comprehensive Guide
Share
Electric bikes have quickly become popular as a sustainable and efficient means of transportation. But to ride safely and legally, it's important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding electric bikes. Here's everything you need to know:
What rules apply to electric bicycles?
To be classified as a bicycle, an electric bicycle must have a maximum speed with electric assistance of 25 km/h. The motor must only provide assistance when you pedal, which amplifies your own effort. In addition, the motor power must not exceed 250 watts – this applies to the continuous (nominal) power. This means that the motor can temporarily deliver a higher so-called peak power, for example up to 1000 watts, as long as the nominal power remains within limits.nsen.Precis Like regular bicycles, electric bicycles must be equipped with a bell, brakes, lighting and reflectors.
Age and license requirements.
There is no age limit or driving license requirement to ride an electric bike. If you are over 15 years old, you can ride up to two children under 10 years old, provided there are suitable seats.
Helmet badge requirements.
Although there is no legal requirement for adults to wear a helmet when riding e-bikes that follow the 25 km/h limit, it is highly recommended for safety. Children under the age of 15 must wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, including e-bikes.
Where can you ride an electric bike?
Electric bicycles are classified as bicycles and may be ridden on cycle paths, even where mopeds are not allowed. However, it is important to note that the right of public access does not apply to electric bicycles.
Off-road cycling.
Motorized vehicles are not included in the right of public access, which means that it is currently prohibited to cycle on paths or in unpaved terrain with electric bicycles. You can always ask the landowner for permission to cycle on their land.
Pedal-assisted cycling.
The electric bike's motor is only activated when you pedal, providing assistance up to 25 km/h. If the motor is activated without pedaling, the vehicle is considered a moped and is subject to different regulations.
Types of electric bicycles.

Speed limiter.
Some electric bicycles and mopeds are technically capable of going faster than 25 km/h, but are equipped with a speed limiter that limits the speed to exactly 25 km/h. If the vehicle is limited to a speed of 25 km/h and the engine power does not exceed 1,000 watts, it can be classified as moped class 2 according to the Swedish Transport Agency's rules.
It is important that the speed limit is permanent. If you unlock the vehicle so that it can go faster than 25 km/h, it is no longer classified as a class 2 moped and may not be legally driven on public roads.
Mandatory cycling equipment by law.
By law, a bicycle must always be equipped with a bell, with no specific requirements on its design or sound.
Every bicycle must have a working brake.
Requirements for lighting and reflectors only apply at night. The bicycle must then be equipped with the following:
- A tail light emitting red light and visible from a distance of at least 300 metres. The tail light may be flashing, provided that it flashes at least 200 times per minute.
- A headlamp that emits white or yellow light with sufficient strength for safe driving in the dark.
- A white reflector at the front and a red reflector at the back.
- A white or orange-yellow reflector on the side.
If you use a bicycle trailer, it must have a red reflector at the rear or a rear light that shows red light if the reflector is missing.
Registration with the Swedish Transport Agency.
All vehicles subject to registration must be registered with the Swedish Transport Agency if you intend to drive them in traffic. It is permitted to drive fast electric scooters without registration in a fenced area.
Important considerations when buying an electric bike.
- Make sure your electric bike complies with EU regulations and is CE marked.
- Practice riding and familiarize yourself with the functions of your electric bike before you head out into traffic.
- Consider wearing a helmet for your safety, regardless of legal requirements.
Understanding and following the rules for e-bikes not only ensures your safety but also compliance with the law. Cycle responsibly and enjoy the convenience and environmental friendliness of e-bikes!
Read more about the laws and regulations that apply to electric bicycles at The Swedish Transport Agency.