Everything you need to know before leasing a speed bike

What is a speed bike?

Your daily commute will determine the type of battery, and therefore the price of the bike. Most brands offer a battery capacity of 500 Wh, but you can increase the capacity depending on your needs. A 1000 Wh battery travels between 80 and 150 km on average. With a battery of 800 Wh, you will cover between 60 and 100 km, depending on the mode you cycle (e.g. in turbo mode you consume more power).

It is important to consider what speeds you want to achieve. A speed bike can reach up to 45 km/h, but this speed can be lower (e.g. 40 km/h), depending on the chosen battery. If you want to ride with a more moderate speed (e.g. 25 km/h), a classic e-bike will be then more appropriate for your needs.

The road you will be biking on also determines your choice. For example, do you have to cycle uphill a lot? Then you will also consume more battery. In that case, choose a model with a powerful or removable battery to ensure good battery autonomy.

Belt or classic chain? It depends on how you use your bike. A belt requires less maintenance than a chain and is ideal for daily commuting. That said, it will wear out more quickly with heavy use (e.g. turbo mode).

In general, we recommend you do a test ride of at least 5 kilometers. Pay attention to your pedaling frequency and how hard you have to pedal to reach a speed of 45 km/h.

The main rules for speed bikes

• For each speed bike produced, the manufacturer provides the buyer with a certificate of conformity and an application for registration of a moped or light quadricycle. Once all the papers are there, they are sent to Cyclis and then they end up at the DIV (Vehicle Registration Department). The DIV provides Cyclis with the license plate and we finally provide it to the bicycle dealer.
• Wearing a bicycle helmet is mandatory. A quick guideline you can use in advance: make sure the temples and the back of the head are protected. In addition, you must be over 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license (driver’s license AM or B).
• On roads where the maximum speed limit is 50 kilometers per hour, speed pedelec users may choose whether to use the bike path or the roadway. However, if the imposed speed exceeds 50 kilometers per hour, bike lanes are mandatory. Speedbikes may travel up to 45 km per hour on the bike lanes, except where otherwise specified (e.g., in zone 30). Road authorities can, however, deny or require them access to a bike lane with special under signs.
• Make sure you always have your on-board documents in your pocket: The certificate of conformity (COC) and the original Part 1 of the registration certificate. Don’t forget your driver’s license and identity card as well.
• As a driver of a speed bike with pedal assistance (even above 25 km/h), no special insurance is required. Family BA (Civil Liability) insurance is then sufficient.
• A specific road sign with the symbol of a moped and the letter P (speed pedelec) applies to drivers of speed bikes.

4 tips for cycling safely

As a speed pedelec user, you are at least as vulnerable as a regular bicycle user. Therefore, follow the safety regulations that apply to bicyclists. You’ll find some helpful tips below:

• Always be alert and do not assume that the car driver did see you. It is important to be completely focused on cycling and the road. So absolutely do not use your smartphone while cycling. So cyclists can avoid many accidents by being a little more aware of their vulnerability. It is recommended that you dress conspicuously, preferably with fluorescent and reflective bands.
• Also make sure you have adequate lighting.
• Make it clear to other road users which direction you are going by extending your arm.
• Finally, it is important to use your brakes properly. It is always best to use the front brake lightly first to stabilize the bike and then the rear brake to avoid skidding.

With these tips, you’re all set to hit the road safely!

• The most important thing is to shift gears correctly. Don’t start in top gear and regularly shift down a few gears when you need to (re)accelerate from a standstill or after a turn.
• Polish & lubricate your chain and sprocket after every big ride or if it has rained.
• Check your tire pressure every month and inflate if necessary. A tire that is not properly inflated creates a lot of extra resistance. The motor will have to work harder for the same result and consequently consume more battery. You can find what the correct tire pressure is on the side of your tire.
• Avoid cobblestones because the uneven surface will cause your bike’s screws to loosen. Electronic connections are shaken and spokes are put under high pressure. This can lead to more wear and tear and repairs.
• Check the brake pads regularly. If these are worn out, you will not brake as well and the brake disc may be damaged.

Do you have any questions or concerns ? Please do not hesitate to contact us at info@cyclis.be or by phone at the number 011/730 115.

Choose your favorite speedbike now at a bike dealer near you.

Marc Jozefczak
Cyclis employee & speed pedelec user

I myself ride a 2019 Stromer ST1X with an 814 Wh battery and rear derailleur motor. With this battery I can easily cycle 40 km to work (round trip) in Turbo mode to work. The pedaling frequency is super. This bike requires an athletic stance; which can be a bit difficult for non-trained individuals. I easily reach a speed of 45 km/h provided I make the necessary effort myself. It is very pleasant to ride a bike through the woods to work in the morning. That way I can start the work day with a fresh head. When I bike home, I clear my head and can enjoy the rest of the day at home.