Electric Bikes have helped the world step into the future of convenient commuting. Their global popularity has contributed to almost $40,312 million in sales in 2019. It’s safe to assume that it will continue to grab people’s attention, compelling them into buying one.
When buying an electric bike, you have many different options to choose from. 250W, 500W, 750W, or 1000W, which is the best?
A 1000W electric bike will undoubtedly be super-fast. However, its maximum speed will depend on many different factors.
How Fast Would a 1000w Electric Bike Go?
Theoretically, a 1000W electric bike should travel 29-35 miles/hour. A bike this strong bike would be able to maintain its momentum on a slope as well. These qualities make a 1000W electric bike perfect for rough terrains and off-roading.
The speed of an electric bike mainly depends on its battery size. The most common battery pack sizes are 250W, 500W, 750W, and 1000W. There are also some 1500W battery packs in the market.
More recent electric bike models mostly have lithium-ion batteries. These batteries can be molded into different shapes and sizes. This quality allows different e-bikes to adjust different power pack sizes.
Electric bikes with high-capacity battery packs such as 750W or 1000W are fast. These batteries store more charge and can convert it to kinetic speed quickly.
Hence, the general rule here is that the higher the wattage, the more the power. As a result, higher would be the electric bike’s speed.
The table below shows different e-bike powers and their respective top speeds on a flat landscape.
| Electric Bike Power Pack Size (Watts) | Maximum Speed on Flat Landscape (miles/hour) |
| 250 | 20 |
| 500 | 25 |
| 750 | 28 |
| 1000 | 35 |
| 1500 | 40 |
Although power is the main determinant of an e-bike’s speed, other factors also matter.
Other factors impacting an electric bike’s speed are:
- The electric bike’s pedal assist level;
- The electric bike’s throttle mechanism;
- The electric bike’s weight;
- The terrain where the electric bike is being ridden;
- The local rules and regulations.
Read How Fast Can You Go On An E-Bike?
Factor’s Affecting the Speed of an Electric Bike
The main factor that affects an electric bike’s speed is its power. Hence, a 1000W electric bike is a high-speed electric bike. However, more factors can play a part in determining a 1000W e-bike’s top speed.
Electric Bike’s Pedal Assist Level
There are two main types of electric bikes, one that relies heavily on pedal assistance, and the other works as a motorbike.
Electric bikes that depend on pedal assistance have their top speed depending on their rider. The faster the rider can pedal, the more speed their electric bike would have.
These electric bikes feel like regular bikes, with the added electrical assistance. This means the rider has to do most of the work, but with the added electrical.
These electric bikes have three pedal assist modes. The speed of an e-bike going on a low-pedal assist level would depend on the rider. The more the pedaling, the higher the speed.
The middle-pedal assist level requires some assistance from the rider while also using the electric aid. Such an e-bike’s speed would go faster than a rider’s pedaling ability.
The high-pedal assist level allows the rider to have high electrical assistance. The e-bike would be able to go on its speed on this level.
For instance, the Bosch electric bike comes with five different pedal assist levels. These levels are named Eco, Tour, Sport, Turbo.
Eco level uses minimum electrical assistance and maintains speed depending on the rider. Whereas, the Turbo level offers the rider maximum electrical assistance and speed.
The table below shows the Bosch e-bike modes and their electrical power assistance.
| Bosch Electric Bike Mode | Additional Electrical Power Assistance (%) | Top Average Speeds (miles/hour) |
| Eco | 40% | 15 |
| Tour | 100% | 20 |
| Sport | 150% | 28 |
| Turbo | 225% | 30 |
Electric Bike’s Throttle Mechanism
With the increasing popularity, innovations in electric bike technologies make headlines regularly. To compete in the growing market, manufacturers work hard to add superior features to their e-bikes.
Many modern recent electric bikes now have throttle mechanisms. This mechanism allows the electric bike to work as a motorbike, which means the rider’s pedaling is no longer required.
If an e-bike comes with a throttle mechanism, its speed would depend on its battery power. Electric bikes without this mechanism would have their speed impacted by other factors.
Check, How Much Does It Cost to Rent An Electric Bike In the United States?
Electric Bike’s Weight
The total weight of an e-bike plays an integral part in determining its top speed.
The more the electric bike weighs, the more power it needs to keep it going. Similarly, if the rider is bulky or is carrying luggage, the e-bike would need more power.
When a 1000w battery pack is attached to a lightweight e-bike, its speed increases. Similarly, a 1000W battery pack attached to a heavier e-bike would not be as fast.
The heavy electric bikes in the market can weigh up to 50+lbs. However, some market electric bikes come as light as 19lbs. On the other hand, a solid 1000W battery pack is discouraged for super lightweight bikes for safety reasons.
The Terrain
The inclinations and roughness of terrain can heavily impact an e-bike’s performance.
If the terrain is super rough and has a steep slope, the e-bike would need more power. As a result, speed would automatically be slower.
Most electric bikes are designed for flat terrains and leisurely cruising. However, some high-powered mountain bikes are designed to perform on rougher trails.
Electric bikes with 750W, 1000W, or above can maintain their speeds on rougher terrains. Engaging your electric bike’s throttle mechanism lets the rider obtain a maximum speed.
The speed of your 1000W electric bike on rougher terrain will also depend on:
The Electric Bike’s Tires
The electric bike’s tire’s condition will impact the maximum speed the e-bike can go on. An e-bike will not maintain higher speeds if the tires are sticky, aged, or worn out.
Similarly, high speed is not possible if the electric bike’s tires are not inflated properly.
The Weather Conditions
If the weather conditions include high strong winds and rain, speed would be affected. The 1000W e-bike’s speed would decrease when riding against strong winds.
At speeds higher than 30miles/hour, the effect of the wind is very strong. The reduced friction will keep an e-bike from going too fast if it is raining.
Read How Long Does an Electric Mountain Bike Battery Last?
Local Rules and Regulations
Different countries around the world have different road rules and regulations in practice. Similarly, different American states employ different rules for electric bikes.
The legality of a high-powered 1000W bike is still under discussion in many American states. Some states allow high-powered electric bikes on the road. In contrast, others have strict wattage restrictions.
Some states like Florida have no electric bike wattage restrictions. One can ride an electric bike powered at 1000W or even 1500W without an issue.
Currently, six American starts have permitted 1000W or below e-bikes. These starts include Oregon, Virginia, Kansas, Georgia, Minnesota, Oklahoma.
On the other hand, almost sixteen states, including Washington, Utah, Pennsylvania, Colorado, etc., have stricter restrictions. Their rules permit only 500W electric bikes on the road. These restrictions are due to the risks associated with riding a high-powered fast e-bike.
Your 1000W electric bike would become illegal if it falls in either of these three categories:
- Removed Speed Limiter: Many old electric bikes could have their speed limited removed or disabled. One could insert a small device and ride the bike at illegally fast speeds. The speeds of such electric bikes could go up to 30miles/hour. Riding this misleading e-bike in a state with wattage and speed restriction would be a crime.
- State Restriction: Riding or selling a 1000W e-bike where it is not allowed would make it illegal.
- Speed Changing Kits: Some illegally sold kits allow a rider to alter the top speed of their e-bike. This activity involves using software designed to do this.
A 1000W e-bike rigged to go at speeds higher than the allowed limit would become illegal.
Read How to Transport an Electric Bike
How Safe is a 1000W Electric Bike?
Driving a car instead of riding a bike at the same speed has different risks. If your car crashes at a 35mile/hour speed, only your vehicle will sustain most of the damage. Chances of your safety are high.
On the contrary, if you get in an e-bike accident at 35mile/hour, it could be fatal. This safety risk is the reason why many American states have wattage restrictions.
If you purchase a 1000W electric bike, chances are you love adventure. Going at high speeds and hitting throttle can be tempting. However, your riding choices can put you and other pedestrians in danger.
Higher speeds require more vigilance and control. Such high speeds might be too much to handle for a novice rider. One wrong turn or break could cause a serious accident.
E-bike accidents commonly lead to bone damage and fracture. They could also result in brain injury and deep body wounds. With speeds as high as 35mile/hour, the severity of these injuries would increase.
A recent report states that e-bike and e-scooter accidents have increased by 70% in recent years. Most of these injuries include broken limbs and brain and neck damage. According to CPSC, seventy-one fatalities have also been recorded.
Hence, the debate regarding the legality of high-powered e-bikes is still going on. The risks associated with such high-powered e-bikes make low-powered e-bikes a safer option.
Read How To Lock An Electric Bike
Is a 1000W Electric Bike the Best Available Option?
Commercial electric bikes come with different battery pack options.
A consumer can choose a 250W or 500W electric bike for in-town commutes. On the other hand the 750W or 1000W electric bikes are preferred for rougher trails.
Is a 1000W electric bike the best option when buying an electric bike?
The answer is not that simple. For rougher routes and high-speed adventures, a 1000W electric bike is excellent. It can offer unparalleled speed and is not easily affected by changing weather.
However, such a fast-electric bike has its limitations. The first major downside is its limited legality. With barely six to eight states allowing its usage, you cannot take your electric bike everywhere.
Moreover, airplanes limit the lithium battery power size they will carry. With a 1000W battery, you will not have the option to transport your e-bike by air.
In addition, higher speeds increase the risks associated with rider injuries and pedestrian safety. If you are not an adventure seeker, better e-bike wattages are available in the market.
750W Electric Bike; The Differences
A 750W electric bike is also considered a high-speed e-bike. Compared to a 1000W e-bike, a 750W e-bike has speed, weight, legality, and safety differences.
Speed
A 1000W electric bike is great for the fast ride. If you want a fast-speed e-bike, you can also choose a 750W e-bike. Its maximum speed would be 28 miles/hour, which is still pretty high.
Legality
Only a handful of American states allow a 1000W electric bike on the road. When you choose a 750W e-bike inside, you have the opportunity to ride in more locations. This factor makes your 750W electric bike a more practical purchase.
Safety
With a lesser top speed than a 1000W e-bike, a 750W e-bike is safer. Injuries and damages can be less severe in comparison. Hence, with a 750W e-bike, you can enjoy a high-speed ride without compromising on safety.
Read Can I Get an Electric Bike on the Cycle to Work Scheme?
When is a 750W Electric Bike the Better Option?
Both the 750W and a 1000W e-bike are high-powered and fast e-bikes. Both e-bikes promise a thrilling, fast ride.
However, for certain situations, a 750W e-bike becomes the better option.
Commuting daily, either to work or the market, does not need such high speeds. For this purpose, a 750W e-bike would easily suffice.
Furthermore, a 750W battery pack would be more cost-effective. Not only will the purchase price be lower, but the charging cost would also be lower.
Related electric bike articles:
- How Do You Charge an Electric Bike
- Can You Use a Turbo Trainer with an Electric Bike?
- How Does an Electric Bike Motor Work?
- Can you take an Electric Bike on Eurostar?
- How Far Can You Go On an Electric Bike?
- Electric Bike Battery Types
Final Thoughts!
With newer and more innovative e-bikes launching daily, consumers get more confused about purchasing decisions.
If you want a thrilling e-bike ride for rough and adventurous landscapes, get a 1000W e-bike. It offers you a speed of 28-35miles/hour and can maintain its momentum on slopes.
However, a fast e-bike has limitations regarding where you can ride it. If you want to face less regulations, go for a 750W e-bike. It is also much safer than a 1000W e-bike. Moreover, a 250W or 500W e-bike is better for daily leisurely commuting. It all comes down to your e-bike usage and the risk you are willing to take.
My name is Matthew, staying in Seattle, Washington. Electric Vehicles (Electric Cars & Electric bikes) caught my attention for the last few years and my love for electric cars and bikes is everlasting. I spend many of my weekends traveling to various places all over various cities with my electric vehicle (e-bike and electric car). Here I am sharing my expertise, experience, and invaluable information about electric cars and electric bikes. Check out more.