The best speed bike 45 km/h in the UK 2023

At the crossroads of a classic EAB and a moped, the speed bike is an electric bicycle with a maximum speed of 45 km/h. Subject to strict regulations, it requires an AM license, proper registration and insurance. But let's start at the beginning: how to choose a 45 km/h speed bike and where to find one?

GUNAI Electric bike 1000 W 1
8/10

Editor's Choice

GUNAI Electric bike 1000 W

The best 45 km/h speed bike

While most 45 km/h speed bikes have a motor of about 500 W, this one has 1000 W! Moreover, it integrates a double suspension for an excellent damping of the shocks and vibrations.

1 247 £ on Amazon

This 45km/h speed bike is made of 6061 aluminum alloy, with full suspension fork. Combined with Chaoyang 26 x 4.0 wide tires, which are particularly good grip equipment, this speed bike is made for riding on various types of roads: asphalt, paved road, rough trail, etc. Wherever vehicles and motorized two-wheelers are allowed, this 45 km/h speed bike will allow you to ride in comfort.

This bike gets its performance from its 1000 W BAFANG motor, powered by a high capacity 17 Ah 48 V battery. With a charging time of 6 to 8 hours, you can ride up to 50 km. You don't have to use the assistance, because this 45 km/h speed bike has 3 modes, the third of which allows you to pedal only with the force of your legs. You will appreciate the performance of a Shimano TX 55/7 transmission with 21 speeds.

URBETTER City e-bike Folding electric bike 2
7/10

Best cheapest

URBETTER City e-bike Folding electric bike

The best 45 km/h folding speed bike cheap

For your daily trips, trust this 45 km/h folding speed bike. Its main asset: its double braking system that reassures!

480 £ on Amazon

With a weight of only 18 kg, this 45 km/h speed bike with an aluminum frame can support up to 120 kg. Not only can the seat be adjusted from 0 to 30 cm in height, but the entire bike can be folded to fit in the trunk of a car. The main argument of this model: a double braking system resulting in a double disc brake for a more reassuring ride and a more lively response.

In terms of performance, this 45 km/h speed bike has the power of a 400 W motor, combined with a 7.5 Ah, 48 V lithium battery. You have the choice between 3 modes: the Pedel mode where you will benefit from a mechanical bike, a classic electric mode where the maximum speed is 25 km/h, finally an electric mode and assistance where the speed bike reaches a cruising speed of 45 km/h. For the two previous modes, you can put the removable child seat already included in the package.

LEGEND Ebikes ETNA 500 W 3
9/10

Best premium

LEGEND Ebikes ETNA 500 W

The best 45 km/h offroad speed bike high end

The characteristics of this 45 km/h speed bike are surprising: a speed close to that of a scooter, a range of 80 km, Shimano derailleurs and brakes, anti-puncture wheels and a folding frame.

1 879 £ on Alltricks

This 45 km/h speed bike promises great adventures off the beaten track. Not EN15194 approved, it is intended for offroad use. This bike combines lightness and rigidity thanks to its aluminum frame with a Rockshox XC30 suspension fork and a KS Kind Shock A5 rear shock. On the handlebars, you have a console with buttons for monitoring mileage and battery life, as well as for setting the electric assist.

To support its powerful 500 W brushless motor, this 45 km/h speed bike is equipped with a 48 V, 10.5 Ah Panasonic battery that can last up to 80 km. Working in conjunction with a 30-speed Shimano Deore transmission, the motor-battery combination allows this speed bike to reach a maximum speed of 43 to 45 km/h. With such a speed, we understand the choice of Shimano M315 hydraulic disc brakes offering a smooth, responsive and lively braking.

ride66 RX02 vélo électrique 4
8/10

Best with large wheels

ride66 RX02 vélo électrique

The best 45 km/h speed bike with large wheels

With its powerful 1000 W motor and its 21-speed Shimano transmission, this 45 km/h speed bike reaches its cruising speed very quickly. And with its wide 26" wheels, the grip on the road is optimal.

1 439 £ on Amazon
Buying guide • November 2023

Best speed bike 45 km/h

Any specific needs?

The best 45 km/h speed bike

The best 45 km/h folding speed bike cheap

The best 45 km/h offroad speed bike high end

The best 45 km/h speed bike with large wheels

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best speed bike 45 km/h

BEST CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE EXCELLENT
GUNAI Electric bike 1000 W 5
8/10
URBETTER City e-bike Folding electric bike 6
7/10
LEGEND Ebikes ETNA 500 W 7
9/10
ride66 RX02 vélo électrique 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
GUNAI Electric bike 1000 W
URBETTER City e-bike Folding electric bike
LEGEND Ebikes ETNA 500 W
ride66 RX02 vélo électrique
While most 45 km/h speed bikes have a motor of about 500 W, this one has 1000 W! Moreover, it integrates a double suspension for an excellent damping of the shocks and vibrations.
For your daily trips, trust this 45 km/h folding speed bike. Its main asset: its double braking system that reassures!
The characteristics of this 45 km/h speed bike are surprising: a speed close to that of a scooter, a range of 80 km, Shimano derailleurs and brakes, anti-puncture wheels and a folding frame.
With its powerful 1000 W motor and its 21-speed Shimano transmission, this 45 km/h speed bike reaches its cruising speed very quickly. And with its wide 26" wheels, the grip on the road is optimal.
Engine
BAFANG 1000 W
400 W
Brushless 500 W
1000 W
Battery
17 Ah 48 V
7.5 Ah 48 V
10.5 Ah 48 V
LG 16 Ah 48 V
Autonomy
40 to 50 km
45 km
80 km
75 km
Transmission
Shimano TX 55/7 with 21 speeds
(automatic speed control depending on mode)
Shimano Deore 30-speed
Shimano 21-speed
Braking
Mechanical disc brakes
Dual disc brakes
Hydraulic disc brakes Shimano M315
Dual XOD oil disc brake

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Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - speed bike 45 km/h

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How to choose your speed bike 45 km/h

The 45 km/h speed bike has the same configurations as a classic electric bike, the only difference being that its motor is more powerful to reach a maximum speed of 45 km/h. However, in addition to its large wheels and tires, it is distinguished by the accessories that make it more like a scooter. Which 45 km/h speed bike to choose? The following criteria will help you make your choice.

#1 - The 45 km/h speed bike motor

Like all electrically assisted bicycles, the 45 km/h speed bike has a motor with a power of between 400 and 500 W (note that the motor of a classic EAB cannot exceed 250 W). You will then have the choice between two types of assistance.

  • In a 45 km/h speed bike with progressive assistance where the motor is placed in the crankset, the assistance provided is proportional to the pedaling effort. This consistency makes the riding much more comfortable and gives a feeling close to the one you feel when you are on the saddle of a classic bike. We should not minimize the fact that this location of the motor lowers the center of gravity of the speed bike 45 km/h and makes it more stable.
  • For a 45 km speed bike with all or nothing assistance, the motor is placed in the rear wheel. Of course, you can enjoy the great thrust when starting, but as with all EABs, when the assistance is suspended briefly during a gear change, you may feel some jerks, especially when you climb a slope.

#2 - The battery

The battery of a 45 km/h speed bike powers the motor and defines the autonomy of this hybrid means of locomotion. Although it is designed in most cases in lithium-ion, manufacturers have found a more efficient alternative: the NiMH where lead is combined with nickel metal hydride.

As for the battery capacity of a 45 km/h speed bike, it is expressed in Wh or in Ah and in V. The higher these two values are, the better the battery's autonomy. Note however that the latter is conditioned by several elements, including the weight of the cyclist, the type of tracks, the use of assistance, etc.

#3 - The transmission

Although the law considers the 45 km/h speed bike as a moped, it works like a classic ACV. Also, its efficiency and performance depend largely on its drivetrain. If manufacturers rely mainly on hub gear derailleurs, such as Shimano or Campagnolo models, it is because they are not messy and avoid the unpleasant mishap of the chain jumping.

In addition, this system allows you to change gears smoothly and easily. It should be noted, however, that shifting from one gear to another suspends the assistance for a few seconds. This suspension is more felt when climbing a slope, but the use of a speed variator on your 45 km/h speed bike will be enough to solve this slight inconvenience.

#4 - The brakes

If we already premium the flexible, precise and reactive braking systems for a classic EAB whose maximum speed is 25 km/h, for a 45 km/h speed bike, we don't need to make any concessions on quality. That's why hydraulic disc brakes or V-Brakes are preferred. The goal is to find a system allowing a progressive braking during a programmed stop and an effective emergency braking in case of obstacle.

As required by law, the brake levers are reversed on a 45 km/h speed bike. The one for the front brake is thus on the right and the one for the rear is on the left.

#5 - The accessories

Because the 45 km/h speed bike is considered a moped, it must be equipped with some accessories:

  • At least one rear view mirror at the end of the left handlebar, with a horn,
  • A complete light system: turn signal, parking light, headlight, tail light, brake light.
  • A license plate,
  • A screen to control the distance traveled and the speed.

In addition to these accessories, there are the classic elements found on a classic bike: kickstand, luggage rack, mudguard, etc.

Speed bike 45 km/h : what does the law say ?

Despite the appearance that the 45 km/h speed bike shares with a classic electric bike, the power of its motor and its maximum speed make it a moped from the point of view of the law. In this sense, it is governed by the same provisions as scooters in terms of traffic, mandatory accessories, insurance and authorization to drive. Here is a list to give you an idea of the requirements with a 45 km/h speed bike designed for road use.

  • About the cyclist:

The driver of a 45 km/h speed bike must be over 14 years old and hold an A, B or AM license. If the law requires the wearing of gloves and approved helmets, it recommends the wearing of well-covered clothes (pants, long sleeves, protection on the joints, etc.)

  • About accessories:

A 45 km/h speed bike must be equipped with at least a rearview mirror, horn and horn. Like scooters, it will be registered and will, therefore, require a license plate holder. While the 45 km/h speed bike can be equipped with a luggage rack, you would not be able to fit a baby seat or much less a trailer.

The 45 mph speed bike also needs to have a complete light system. This includes a parking light, turn signals, brake light, headlights and tail lights. The lights should be powerful to increase visibility on the road.

  • On paperwork:

Already, you must register your speed bike 45 km/h with the registration center and thus obtain a gray card and a plate. In addition, you should insure the speed bike and take out, as a minimum, liability insurance. You can extend it with a personal guarantee of the driver, a guarantee of theft, fire and property damage, breakdown assistance, etc.

  • On traffic clearances:

The 45 km/h speed bike can travel on all roads where vehicles are allowed. If you ride in the city, you must ride in the same lane as cars and motorized two-wheelers. All bike paths are off limits to 45 km/h speed bikes as are nature trails.

The different types of speed bike 45 km/h

There are two main types of 45 km/h speed bikes, depending on their use and approval.

Speed bike 45 km/h for road use

When it is made for the road, the 45 km/h speed bike must be homologated and have an EN15194 certification. It is only with this approval that a 45 km/h speed bike can be used as a daily means of transportation. In this case, the subscription of an insurance (at least a civil liability), the existence of a mirror on the left handlebar and the obtaining of a grey card with a license plate is necessary.

The 45 km/h speed bike, being considered as a moped, can only be driven on the usual roads where motorized vehicles can be driven. In other words, you can't use it for sports in the mountains or even less for hiking in nature. Always keep in mind that bike paths are forbidden to 45 km/h speed bikes intended for road use.

Speed bike 45 km/h for offroad use

The 45 km/h speed bike, not having obtained the EN15194 approval, cannot be used on the road and is intended for offroad use. Generally usable as a mountain bike, it satisfies the lovers of speed and mountain sports insofar as it can exceed 45 km/h on the descents if you run the assistance at full speed.

In this sense, this type of 45 km/h speed bike is limited to off-road use and the same rules as for sport bikes apply. You can still register the speed bike, but it is difficult to insure it, because without this registration, it is considered to have been unbridled. In any case, the wearing of protective accessories remains a must for your own safety.

Speed bike 45 km/h or classic electric bike ?

The 45 km/h speed bike and the classic electric bike share a common point: the existence of a motor, powered by a battery, which provides electric assistance to increase efficiency without requiring too much effort from the cyclist. However, they differ on some points; their uses are thus different.

Classic electric bike

Born from a desire to create a means of locomotion that is less tiring than "mechanical" bicycles, but with ecological advantages, electric bicycles have quickly conquered hearts. Thanks to a motor that can reach 250 W of power, this type of bike benefits from an electric assistance to pedaling to reduce the efforts made. It is thanks to this combination that the EAB can quickly reach its cruising speed of 25 km/h.

Practically similar to other bicycles, except for its assistance, the electric bicycle is governed by the same legal provisions. It can go where any bike can go, whether it is on paved roads, in the city, in the countryside or even in the wilderness. There is no need to register it or obtain a specific license to own and ride one!

Speed bike 45 km/h

The 45 km/h speed bike is halfway between an EAB and a scooter. In appearance, it is almost similar to an electric bike: the battery in the frame as well as the motor at the back of the bike do not deceive. However, there are some notable differences that make it easy to recognize a 45 km/h speed bike: a mirror on the left handlebar, a horn, a complete light system and a license plate.

All these elements are justified by the fact that a 45 km/h speed bike, in the eyes of the law, remains a moped insofar as it can reach 45 km/h, thus largely exceeding the 25 km/h of a classic ACV. Also, not only those who carry a speed bike must be equipped with gloves and approved helmet, but this type of motorized bikes can circulate only on roads where vehicles are allowed. In other words: no bike paths or nature trails for a 45 km/h speed bike.

Verdict

Although it looks a lot like a classic electric bike, the 45 km/h speed bike has almost the same performance as a scooter and is governed by the same laws and codes as a moped. You will find the same advantages as on a classic bike, but with an assistance that allows you to ride faster. That's why the 45 km/h speed bike is recommended for long trips to and from work.

5 good reasons to have a good speed bike 45 km/h

Why choose a 45 km/h speed bike instead of a classic VAE or a scooter? What are the advantages of this hybrid means of locomotion?

For the speed of displacement with a speed bike 45 km/h

The power of the motors of the classic VAE is limited to 250 W, they cannot exceed 25 km/h; moreover, with the reaching of this maximum speed, the assistance stops automatically. However, with a 45 km/h speed bike, you can ride almost as fast as a 50 cc scooter. If you live on the outskirts of the city or if you have to make long daily trips, the speed bike will help you to ride faster while remaining in the spirit of an electric bike.

For the performance of the speed bike 45 km/h

If you choose a 45 km/h speed bike or even a classic electric bike, it is because you want to reduce the effort when pedaling without reducing your speed. This feat is possible thanks to the electric assistance, which is particularly efficient on a 45 km/h speed bike. You can even choose between an assistance proportional to the force of pedaling or opt for an "all or nothing" version which turns at full speed as soon as you request it. A good boost from the start!

For the ecological aspect of the 45 km/h speed bike

Although it is labelled as a moped, the 45 km/h speed bike is above all a bicycle and is therefore an environmentally friendly means of transportation. Unlike a scooter that runs on gasoline, the 45 km/h speed bike is purely electric. And by exchanging your car for a 45 km/h speed bike, you reduce the emission of harmful substances and contribute to the reduction of the number of cars on the road.

No more traffic jams

You can't stand the endless lines of cars on your way to work and home anymore? Because the 45 km/h speed bike is as compact as a bicycle, it will weave in and out of traffic to help you get to your destination faster. You no longer need to leave several hours in advance to avoid being late and you will arrive in time for dinner!

To save money

More affordable than a scooter and a car, the 45 km/h speed bike is also a cheap way to get around. No more need to buy gasoline, because you just have to recharge the battery and the speed bike can run for a good 50 km, or even much more! No need to take the train to get to areas several kilometers away from your home: with a speed of 45 km/h, you will make the trip quickly.

The best brands of speed bike 45 km/h

In our opinion, the best brands of speed bike 45 km/h in 2022 are :

GUNAI
Haibike
LEGEND Ebikes
ride66
Trek

Gunai is a Chinese brand that has broken through in Europe. Its strong point: the quality-price ratio of its 45 km/h speed bikes that seem to seduce European cyclists.

Born around 1995, the brand Haibike is a reference in the construction of electric bikes and 45 km/h speed bikes. Synonymous with luxury and high-end, its speed bikes are certainly particularly exorbitant, but the quality is indeed there.

Legend Ebikes is a young Spanish brand based in Barcelona and has been acquiring a growing reputation for several years. The right balance between technology and design are among the main attractions of the brand's 45 km/h speed bikes.

The brand was born in Paris; it was born from the dream of a kid who wanted more than anything to ride his bike on Route 66 in the United States. Although the brand is barely over a decade old, its performance deserves respect: the technicality and technology embarked in its 45 km/h speed bikes testify to this.

The American giant Trek also launches into the design of 45 km/h speed bikes. Of course, you need to plan around 5000 € to have one, but considering the performance, we understand the price.

What is the price speed bike 45 km/h

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
500 £ to 1000 £
Mid-range
1000 £ to 2000 £
High-end
more than 2000 £
Price range diagram

Tips

To increase the autonomy of a 45 km/h speed bike

To increase the autonomy of the battery of your speed bike 45 km/h, you must start by lightening the load of your bike: carry only the essentials. In addition, whatever the type of assistance, remember to pedal well so as not to overload the motor and therefore the battery. And another important tip: remember to always inflate the wide tires of your 45 km/h speed bike.

To change gears with a 45 km/h speed bike

When you change gears, whether on a classic electric bike or a 45 km/h speed bike, the assistance briefly pauses. Pedal smoothly when you shift from one gear to another, because the strength of the assist will depend on how hard you pedal. If you push the pedals too hard, the motor will have to provide a lot of thrust and the chain will shift too roughly from one sprocket to another.

To find the right pedaling cadence on a 45 km/h speed bike

Each motor on a speed bike is associated with a specific number of pedal strokes per minute (from about 40 to 80 strokes). If you have a proportional assist, you'll want to avoid pedaling too softly at the risk of weakening it. Also, remember to smooth out the pedaling motion. Avoid jerking as much as possible and make circular movements so as not to interrupt the assistance at each pedaling.

To preserve the brakes of a 45 km/h speed bike

When you are on a 45 km/h speed bike, keep the same reflexes as when you ride a mechanical bike. Reduce your speed when you approach a stop, join the eco-driving movement, and adjust your pedaling according to the path you're traveling. This way, you won't have to use your brakes too often and you'll preserve them longer.

A 45 km/h speed bike that looks like an electric bike and performs like a scooter; it's bound to attract the envy of malicious souls. Also, consider investing in a good electric bike lock and choosing your location on a parking space or parking lot.

FAQ

How does a speed bike work?

Although the law labels it as a moped, the 45 km/h speed bike works like a classic electric bike; the only difference is that its maximum speed is 45 km/h. For the rest, everything is similar to an EAB: battery-motor couple, transmission group, braking system, etc. In other words, the same criteria for an EAB prevail for a speed bike.

Can you get checked with a speed bike?

Because the 45 km/h speed bike is considered as a moped, i.e. a motorized vehicle, the police can control you. Besides, think to respect all the legal dispositions around the 45 km/h speed bike to not have any problem: wearing of regulated helmets and gloves, grey card, operational lights system, rear view mirror, etc.

What insurance do you need for a speed bike?

If you drive a 45 km/h speed bike, think to take out at least a civil liability insurance. You can extend to other coverages to prevent theft, property damage, fire, etc. With good insurance, you can amply enjoy all the benefits of a 45 km/h speed bike; those many reasons that justify the purchase of this means of locomotion.

How to ride at 45 km/h ?

To ride at 45 km/h while you were riding a bike, just tab for a 45 km/h speed bike. A few tricks will allow you to optimize the piloting of this VAE like no other; this includes a good pedaling cadence, a meticulous use of the electric assistance, a smooth gear change, a thoughtful use of the braking system, etc.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. Electric Bike - The speed bike a pedal moped, quechoisir.org
  2. Why choose a Speedbike?, radins.com
  3. How to drive and maintain your electric bike properly?, ecoconso.be
  4. How to Choose The Best Electric Bike, bicyclewarehouse.com
  5. Pedelecs - What is a pedelec speed pedelec or e-bike?, swov.nl
  6. How to Choose the Best Electric Bike, aventon.com
  7. Best electric bike 2021: ebike types explained and how to choose the right one for you, bikeradar.com
  8. Everything about speed pedelecs regulations and safety!, qwic.eu
  9. Electric Bike Buying Guide | How To Choose, evocycles.co.nz
  10. Buying and riding an S-pedelec in the UK, ebiketips.road.cc
  11. 3 Things You Should Know Before Buying A Electric Bike 45 km/h! -, brightstartw.com
  12. ELECTRIC BIKE 45 KMH FAST POWERFUL SPEEDBIKE - Vélozen ..., velozen.com
  13. A selection of electric bikes going up to 45km/hour, velo-horizon.fr
  14. Speed electric bike speedelec best ..., 2raventure.com
  15. Speed electric bike fast, altermove.com
  16. [Test] Lapierre Overvolt Speed 45 km/h a speedbike more ..., weelz.fr
  17. Speed Bike Kalkhoff Endeavour 7.B Excite 45 - Cyclable, cyclable.com
  18. VAE 45 km/h (Speedbike) a point on legislation ..., weelz.fr
  19. Speed bike - Cyclable, cyclable.com
  20. Friday 27 FS Speed - Moustache Bikes, moustachebikes.com
  21. Speed bikes for longer rides | S-Pedelecs ..., haibike.com
  22. SpeedBike - 45km/h electric bike - Veloactif, veloactif.com
  23. Speed bikes | Electric bike 45 km / h | Gazelle, gazellebikes.com
  24. VTT Speed bike - 45 km/h electric mountain bike - Horizon Bike, velo-horizon.fr
  25. Speed Bike price powerful electric bike vae Stromer 45 km/h, volto-velo.com
  26. Powerful electric mountain bike VTTAE 45 km/h power and speed, volto-velo.com
  27. Speed bike - 45 km/h - veloland-shop.ch, veloland-shop.ch
  28. Electric bike 45 km/h : speedbike online shop, bikecenter.fr
  29. Electric bike 45 km/h: The most ..., velolandannemasse.fr
  30. Testing the Trek Super Commuter Electric 9S+, culturevelo.com
  31. STROMER | Speedbike electric bike 45 km/h, altermove.com
  32. Speedbike electric bikes Moustache Stromer : Routens ...., routens-electric-bike.fr
  33. Electric Bike 45 Kmh Moustache Saturday 28 Speed 2017 ..., velozen.com
  34. Bike Info : Speed bike all you need to know about its ..., velotaf.com
  35. Electric Assisted Bike 45 Km/h, cachera.be
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
GUNAI Electric bike 1000 W 9
GUNAI Electric bike 1000 W
URBETTER City e-bike Folding electric bike 10
URBETTER City e-bike Folding electric bike
LEGEND Ebikes ETNA 500 W 11
LEGEND Ebikes ETNA 500 W
ride66 RX02 vélo électrique 12
ride66 RX02 vélo électrique

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