Are you an electric bike user who wants to make a switch? You might want a Class 3 electric bike. Welcome to Part 3 of our ebike class series. So far, we’ve covered Class 1 and  Class 2 electric bikes, and now we will discuss the last one. Class 3 bikes are fast and powerful and are great for seasoned riders and adventurers who want a more capable ride.  

So, the question is, what makes an electric bike a Class 3? The most distinguishing feature is that they can go as fast as 28 miles per hour, in contrast to the 20 mph speed limit in other classes. Although rules state that such bikes should not have throttles, some models do. Rules also state that such bikes should be limited to 750 watts in power, but we’ve seen many models that have powerful motors, like the Rambo Prowler Hunting Bike (1000-watt hub motor) and the Eunorau Defender Fat Bike (1,500-watt electric motor). This makes these speedy bikes pretty exciting. 

Because of the high top speed, such bikes have larger batteries and more powerful motors, which also explains why they are more pricey. In addition, many localities restrict who can ride class 3 electric bikes and where they can be ridden. 

Get to know other classes of electric bikes. We have a dedicated Electric Bike Paradise blog here: “What Are the Classes of Electric Bikes?”

Benefits of Class 3 Ebikes

These bikes are on different levels in terms of horsepower and performance. If you want a really fast electric bike, class 3 electric bikes are your choice. It is the sports car among electric bikes, accelerating and achieving phenomenal speeds on the road and the trail. 

The immediate benefit is pretty obvious. It is safe to bring on the road because you can ride at the speed of the traffic. Use it to commute to school faster, and travel on paths to get away from traffic. You can speed on the road and go on off-road paths quickly to reach your destination quicker. 

Another fantastic thing about Class 3 electric bikes is the range. The class has the most range among electric bikes, and it is a good choice if you have range anxiety. There is something different about the flexibility of having a large battery since a single charge can give you power for days at a time. And you can undertake long journeys without worrying about emptying your battery. 

One example of a class 3 electric bike with an awesome range is the Greenbike City Path Folding Electric Bike (pictured above). It has a sizable 15-ah lithium battery pack that gives it a range of up to 60 miles, so that’s more than enough for use in the city. It's a small folding bike, but since it is Class 3, it can go faster and travel further than larger electric bikes!

Class 3 electric bikes are also good for uphill trails (when allowed) since the extra power means you can conquer more difficult terrain. Many hunting bikes (like the Rambo Venom Electric Bike), which are made to carry heavy loads, are Class 3. If you are into exploring and camping, you can carry more supplies and equipment with your bike without becoming bogged down.

Yes, electric bikes help users receive more exercise and venture outdoors more. It will do wonders for your health and attitude. However, getting a Class 3 ebike is different. The freedom it gives you is like having a car for the first time. 

Additional Features of Class 3 Ebikes

Most electric bikes use factory or generic accessories, which are good for everyday use but not made for additional performance. Class 3 electric bikes are uncommon because they have a good design and branded components. That also contributes to their higher price. Many class 3 electric bikes have these additional features. Note that these features are also found in other electric bike classes as well. 

Many bikes have pedal-assist features, where the motor engages to make pedaling easier. There are two types of pedal assist, cadence, and torque sensing. In cadence assist, the motor turns on after you make a certain number of rotations on the pedal, doing the assist but tends to produce a sudden, ‘jerky’ feel on the pedal. 

Meanwhile, the harder you pedal, the more assist the motor provides in torque sensing assist. Torque assist uses a high-precision sensor that measures the push given on the pedal. Therefore, lighter pedaling will cause the motor to provide a lighter assist. Torque assist is more precise and intuitive. Almost all Class 3 ebikes come with torque assist. 

Another nice feature present in most Class 3 bikes is the hydraulic disc brakes. Many bikes are equipped with mechanical brakes where force is transmitted on cables. In contrast, hydraulic uses brake fluid and sealed lines, like in a car, to operate the brakes, producing a softer and more precise feel. A little squeeze is all you need to have plenty of stopping power, reducing strain on your hands and arms for added comfort.

Since class 3 electric bikes have a lot of power, many come with heavy-duty frames. These frames are more durable and can carry an additional load. These are useful for adventure riding or for utility. The Rambo Rebel Hunting Bike (pictured above) has a 6061 aluminum frame that can carry up to 300 lbs., so you can choose this bike to carry equipment and supplies in harsh terrain.

One rare feature, even among Class 3 bikes, is special battery setups. Some electric bikes come with two batteries for additional range. The Bikonit Fat Tire Electric Bike frame (bike pictured below) can accept two lithium battery packs with a 30-ah capacity, giving it an incredible range of 100 miles! 

Regulations for Class 3 Ebikes

So now, let’s discuss the gorilla in the room. You should note that Class 3 electric bikes are regulated in most states and have more restrictions than Class 2 and Class 1.

For example, Class 3 bikes are ‘high-speed electric bikes’ in California, where you can only ride them on bike lanes, paths, and trails unless allowed by local authorities. In New York City, Class 3 bikes should have a 25 mph speed limit. In the state of Washington, the bikes can be used on trails and forest roads signed open for motorized use. Laws are somewhat restrictive in Colorado, where only bikes with a speedometer are allowed and may be prohibited in bike or pedestrian lanes unless specifically allowed. Class 3 bikes may not fare well in Michigan state, as they are not allowed on roads, bike lanes, paved lanes, and mountain bike trails.

Therefore, always check local city and state laws before purchasing class 3 electric bikes. Want an alternative solution for carrying heavy stuff in your place? Now you can go with electric trikes. See great deals by visiting our sister website Mobility Paradise. 

Summary of Class 3 Ebikes

If you are an experienced electric bike rider that needs a more capable ride, class 3 electric bikes are the way to go. The 28-mile speed limit makes it safe to ride in the traffic, and you can reach your destination quickly. These bikes also have powerful motors and more durable frames, so they can carry more and be used to haul heavy items safely. 

Class 3 electric bikes tend to be more expensive than other electric bikes. That is the price for the added performance. These bikes are made with bigger motors and batteries, and many use premium, branded components. Some got features such as torque-sensing pedal assist, dual-battery setup, and hydraulic disc brakes. 

Our Electric Bike Paradise store has great selections of class 3 electric bikes, as well as bikes in other classes. We are an accredited dealer of every brand we carry, and we have the best prices since we got our bikes straight from the dealer. That also means we can help you directly if you have issues with your purchase, so there is no need for you to deal with the difficulty of reaching the dealer. Order your Class 3 ebike here at Electric Bike Paradise and give us a call now!