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At Regen, we often get asked a deceptively simple question:
“How fast can your electric cargo bike go?”
It’s a fair question—and an important one. Whether you’re commuting, delivering goods, or riding for leisure, speed affects not just efficiency, but legality, safety, and riding comfort. So today, we’re taking you behind the handlebars and into the data. We’ll explore real-world speed stats, legal limits, and what affects your cargo bike’s velocity.
Speed Limits Around the World
Let’s start with the basics: legal top speeds vary by region. Most electric cargo bikes fall into one of two classes:
| Region | Legal Top Speed (km/h) | Top Speed (mph) | Class Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| EU | 25 | 15.5 | Pedelec (250W motor max) |
| EU (Speed-P) | 45 | 28 | Speed pedelec, needs registration |
| USA | 32 | 20 | Class 1 & 2 e-bikes (750W motor limit) |
| Canada | 32 | 20 | Max 500W motors |
In most European countries, our cargo bikes are limited to 25 km/h to qualify as bicycles under traffic law—no license or insurance needed. In the U.S. and Canada, the cap is 32 km/h. Some bikes exceed this (up to 45 km/h) under a speed pedelec classification, which usually requires helmet use, insurance, and even a number plate.
👉 Link to: FAQ about Electric Cargo Bike Motor System and Power
What Speeds Do Riders Actually Reach?
This is where theory meets tarmac. Regen electric cargo bikes cruise comfortably around:
- 20–25 km/h (12–15.5 mph) under standard pedal assist
- 25–28 mph (40–45 km/h) for high-power or speed-pedelec models
But remember—speed isn’t just about specs. It’s about load, terrain, rider input, and of course, motor strength.
Regen 02 E-Cargo Bike
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Real-World Example
One of our clients in Germany uses a speed-pedelec cargo bike with dual batteries and a 750W motor. On flat city roads, it consistently cruises around 42 km/h, even with a 60 kg cargo load. That said, for daily family use or municipal deliveries, most Regen customers find the 25 km/h limit perfectly suitable—and safe.
What Factors Affect E-Cargo Bike Speed?
We’ve tested dozens of configurations across our longtail and front-loader models. Here’s what really influences top speed:
| Factor | Effect on Speed |
|---|---|
| Motor power | More watts = higher top speed. 250W ≈ 25 km/h, 750W ≈ 32+ km/h |
| Battery capacity | Higher voltage and amp-hours improve sustained top-end speed |
| Bike design | Longtails are faster and more agile than three-wheelers or high-sided box bikes |
| Load weight | More cargo = lower acceleration and reduced top speed |
| Terrain & wind | Uphills and headwinds can slow you down significantly |
| Tire pressure | Underinflated tires reduce speed and range |
Further Reading ：Understanding Frame Geometry in Cargo Bikes and Its Influence on Handling Performance
Speed vs. Safety: What’s the Risk
Let’s be honest: cargo bikes aren’t racing bikes. We design our frames for stability and cargo handling, not for blazing speeds.
At over 30 mph (~48 km/h), even slight steering wobbles can become risky. Stopping distance increases dramatically with weight. That’s why all Regen cargo bikes come with:
- Hydraulic disc brakes rated for 200 kg+ total loads
- Suspension forks or seatposts for stability on bumpy roads
- Sturdy aluminum frames that resist high-speed flex
The bottom line? Speed is exciting, but safety always comes first.
- See our comparison: Mechanical Disc Brakes vs Hydraulic Disc Brakes in E-Bikes and Cargo Bikes
- Learn about Frame Strength: What Determines Durability?
Comparing Popular Cargo E-Bikes (Including Ours)
Here’s a side-by-side of top-selling cargo bikes :
| Model | Motor (W) | Top Speed | Class | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gunai GN66 | 1,000 | ~45 km/h | Speed-pedelec | High power, suited for private paths or delivery fleets |
| Riese & Müller Load 75 | 500–850 | Up to 45 km/h | Speed-pedelec | Dual suspension, dual battery |
| Longtail 750 Pro | 750 | 32–38 km/h | Class 2/Speed-P | Best-in-class range and acceleration |
| Lectric XPedition | 750 | 32 km/h | Class 2 | Fat tires, affordable for families |
| Decathlon R500E | 250 | 25 km/h | EU Pedelec | Great entry-level option |
Not sure which type of cargo bike suits you? See: How Many Different Types Of Cargo Bike?
Bike Speed & Use Cases (Visual Summary)
| Speed Range | Bike Class | Common Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ 25 km/h | Pedelec | School runs, grocery trips, urban errands |
| 25–32 km/h | Class 2 / 750W | Light cargo delivery, suburban commuting |
| 32–45 km/h | Speed Pedelec | Courier services, long-range delivery |
Tips from Regen: How to Go Faster, Safely
Want to increase your e-cargo bike’s speed while staying within safe limits? Here’s our advice:
- Upgrade to a 750W mid-drive motor if local laws allow
- Use pedal assist actively to push beyond motor-only speeds
- Invest in proper tires and brake systems—especially with heavier cargo
- Use a streamlined load setup (no overhanging boxes or tall panels)
- Don’t overload the rear rack—even balance matters at higher speeds
We’ve seen delivery teams increase route efficiency by 35% just by optimizing tire pressure, cargo weight, and ride technique—without changing the motor at all.
Key Takeaways
- Most e-cargo bikes are legally limited to 25–32 km/h depending on your location
- With the right setup, speeds of 45 km/h are achievable—but require a speed pedelec classification
- Real-world cruising speeds usually sit around 20–28 km/h, which balances speed with safety and handling
- Bike configuration, cargo load, terrain, and even rider weight all play a part
- At Regen, we design bikes not for raw speed, but for safe, efficient transport that keeps your business or lifestyle moving smoothly
References
- EU Regulation No 168/2013
- PeopleForBikes – E-Bike Classes
- Decathlon R500E Specs
- CleanTechnica Review on Lectric XPedition
- Giant/Yamaha Cargo E-Bike Launch
- Urban Arrow Tender Fleet Use Cases
- Gunai GN66 Product Listing
- Riese & Müller Load 75 Specs
Want to learn more or test ride Regen’s latest longtail or trike models?
Contact us anytime—our engineering team is happy to walk you through which speed setup suits your route, terrain, and local laws.
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Customizable E-Cargo Bike - RS01
Whether you’re a growing brand or a neighborhood store, our heavy-duty cargo bikes are your ticket into the booming world of eco-friendly delivery. Let’s roll!
