S-pedelecs: These rules apply in Germany, Austria and Switzerland
Are S-pedelecs the next big thing on the bicycle market? That is entirely possible if you look at the sales figures of the fast e-bikes in different European countries. For example, Switzerland and Belgium are reporting strong growth in sales. The trend is likely to follow in other regions, too. There is one obstacle, however: Strict regulations still apply in many countries and that could make buying an S-pedelec unattractive.
You want to know which rules apply in your country? In the following article we have taken a closer look at the rules for S-pedelecs in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
What are S-pedelecs?
Before we start with the various regulations, we would like to take a closer look at S-pedelecs as vehicles. S-pedelecs are electric bicycles that provide assistance up to a speed of 45 km/h. Compared to classic pedelecs, which provide assistance up to a speed of 25 km/h, speed pedelecs typically have a more powerful motor and a more robust design. In this way, they meet the higher speed and the associated higher safety requirements.
Another difference is the legal framework. Due to their faster maximum speed, the fast e-bikes are considered to be motorized vehicles in many countries. This means that they are subject to stricter regulations than classic e-bikes. However, there are major differences between countries, as the following overview shows.
S-pedelec rules in Switzerland
Let’s start with Switzerland. In 2022, 22,782 speed pedelecs were sold here – more than ten percent of all electric bicycles sold throughout the country. Switzerland is thus considered a pioneer in the field of S-pedelecs in Europe. And that has something to do with the very friendly regulations. Back in 2012, cycling areas – i.e. cycle paths – were generally cleared for speed pedelecs. As a result, speed pedelec fans have the same opportunities in traffic as classic cyclists. At the same time, they benefit from the faster speed. It is therefore no coincidence that leading S-pedelec manufacturers such as FLYER and Opium also come from Switzerland.
But there are also some regulations that differentiate fast e-bikes from classic e-bikes. By law, they are considered to be motorcycles. So you need a yellow license plate to ride one. Insurance is also needed. In addition, S-pedelecs may only be driven by persons over the age of 14 with an M driving license. In terms of equipment, a helmet is required. Last but not least, your bicycle needs a bell and a lighting system with daytime running lights. This last point actually applies to all e-bikes in Switzerland.
S-pedelec rules in Switzerland
- Insurance and yellow plates
- At least 14 years or over
- M driver’s license
- Helmet compulsory
Equipment: Helmet compulsory
S-pedelec rules in Germany
The situation in Germany is quite different. Here, the German Road Traffic Regulations (StVO) treat speed pedelecs as mopeds. This means that you have to ride your pedelec on the normal road. The use of cycle paths is only permitted under rare circumstances. For many riders, this is a clear obstacle to buying. According to market research conducted by ZIV (the German bicycle industry), only 11,000 S-pedelecs were sold throughout the country recently – only half as many as in Switzerland.
As in Switzerland, insurance is compulsory in Germany and you need an insurance license plate to operate your fast bike. The age limit in Germany is higher, with riders having to be at least 16 years of age. You are only allowed to ride an S-pedelec if you have a driver’s license class AM. Compulsory accessories include a rearview mirror, a pushing aid, license plate lighting, a horn and a lighting system with daytime running light and brake light. Helmets are also compulsory here.
And what’s more: It is quite possible that the German regulators will better integrate S-pedelecs into the traffic concept in the near future. A corresponding test is currently under way in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia. According to a change in the law, cities here can allow fast e-bikes on cycle paths. This should be an additional incentive for many users to switch to S-pedelecs.
S-pedelec rules in Germany
- Insurance and insurance license plate
- At least 16 years or over
- AM driver’s license
- Helmet compulsory
Equipment: rearview mirror, pushing aid, license plate lighting, horn, lighting system with daytime running light and brake light
S-pedelec rules in Austria
Austria is even stricter than neighboring Germany. Here, S-pedelecs are considered to be vehicles of category L1e-B. In legal terms, they are therefore equivalent to a moped. The use of cycle paths is therefore also taboo here. In Austria, as in Switzerland and Germany, there is an insurance obligation and therefore also an obligatory insurance license plate.
In terms of equipment, the speed pedelec needs a fixed lighting system with brake light and license plate illumination, a rearview mirror, ECE-R 75 tires, brake levers with ball ends. Two independently functioning brakes, an audible warning device, and side and pedal reflectors are also required. You must wear a helmet that complies with the motorcycle helmet standard ECE-R 22-05. NB: You must also have a first aid kit with you.
All these rules have their consequences: For example, the number of S-pedelecs sold in Austria is currently so small that there is no official market data on sales.
S-pedelec rules in Austria
- Insurance and insurance license plate
- At least 16 years or over
- AM driver’s license
- Compulsory use of helmets (motorcycle helmet standard ECE-R 22-05)
Equipment: Fixed lighting system with brake light and license plate illumination, rearview mirror, ECE-R 75 tires, brake lever with ball ends, two independently functioning brakes, acoustic warning device, side and pedal reflectors, first aid kit
S-pedelec regulations in Germany, Austria and Switzerland – conclusion
Our overview of the S-pedelec regulations in Germany, Austria and Switzerland shows that despite regional proximity, there are significant differences in the rules. While Switzerland adopts a more liberal stance and allows S-pedelecs on cycle paths, which has led to a sales boom, regulations in Germany and Austria are more restrictive. The sales figures in the respective countries show that these differences have a direct impact on the acceptance and popularity of the vehicles. However, developments such as in North Rhine-Westphalia could be a sign of a possible positive change in Germany.
And what’s more: SESPIN is a German-Austrian-Swiss research project currently investigating how speed pedelecs can be safely and efficiently integrated into the respective transport systems. The results are expected in the course of the year.
Would you like to find out more about e-bikes? Then the following blog post may be of interest to you:
02.04.2024