Pedelec: What is it anyway? We explain it

The bicycle market is booming, and e-bikes are just continuing a trend that has been around for years anyway. When shopping, the term pedelec keeps popping up and we explain what it is.

Important definition: a pedelec does not work independently, but assists.

Is a pedelec the same as an e-bike or a special variant of it? This question is asked by many potential buyers.

What is a pedelec and what is an e-bike?

Generally, pedelecs and e-bikes are mostly used as synonymous terms. However, this is not quite correct:

• The term pedelec is composed of Pedal Electric Cycle.
• This refers to so-called supporting e-bikes. These require the step in the pedals to move forward.
• For this reason, a driver's license is not required for a pedelec, if the pedal assistance is suspended from 25 km / h.
• With the e-bike it behaves differently. Because strictly speaking, it is defined as an electric bicycle, which also drives without pedal movement by the engine power alone, in principle like a moped so. Consequently, a license plate is mandatory and, depending on the maximum speed, also a driver's license.

Here, the individual gradations are to be distinguished, as these are relevant under road traffic law. In practice, the majority of e-bikes in the store ranges are pedelecs anyway; the question of driver's license and license plate therefore does not arise, unless it is S-pedelecs.