E-bikes operate differently to traditional bikes, where the standard speed is entirely up to the rider and how they pedal to determine velocity and movement. The speed is based completely on energy level output, but with electric bikes there is more to it. E-bikes are designed to make pedalling easier and help you move faster with less effort. The speed of an e-bike is determined by its motor wattage and how much current is drawn from the model’s battery, which will vary from model to model. 

The average e-bike can go as fast as 20 miles per hour, although some have even more speed capability, with a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour. E-bike cyclists will typically use a power rating of 250 – 350 watts, and the wattage of the electric bike coupled with the type of terrain you are riding will determine how fast your e-bike can go.

An electric bike offers a range of benefits including those classically associated with a traditional, non-assisted bike, with motorised power that you can access whenever you need. Motorised bikes span a wide range, so you can secure any type of bike with a motor to fit your needs. 

An e-bike has a motor that will help to propel you, instead of all your power coming from the energy you put into peddling. The amount of power generated is regulated based on how hard you are peddling and the level of support you have chosen to elect for your e-bike. With a number of modes to choose from, you can balance the amount of power generated through the pedals with range and battery supply.

While it is not possible to estimate how long an e-bike battery will last, a general guide says that most lower-end e-bikes will give you a 30-60 km range, while the higher-end brands can last up to 120 km with a single charge. All variables can be impacted by the surface that you ride on, the weight of the rider, additional cargo weight, weather conditions, incline and battery age. As a base, bike batteries will last anywhere between 2 and 10 years depending on factors like usage, charging habits, the model and the quality of the battery. On average, most e-bike batteries can last between 3 and 5 years with regular use.

You do not need a license to ride an e-bike. Under Australian law, a pedal-assisted electric bike can assist the rider up to a max speed of 25 km per hour on the road. If you do decide to go beyond this, the e-bike must have a cut-off. As long as a bike meets the speed criteria, you do not need a license, registration or insurance to enjoy your ride.