EXPLAINED: Electric Bike Classifications

Electric bikes are rapidly changing Toronto’s cityscape, but with so many models and local laws in place, it’s important to be familiar with different e-bike classifications, and how this affects where and how you ride. Here’s a clear guide to e-bike laws in 2025; Federal, provincial and Toronto-specific regulations relating to e-bikes and Canadian e-bike riders.

What are Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 E-Bikes?

E-bikes are generally divided into three primary classes which guide their permitted use:

Class 1 (Pedal Assist Only): These e-bikes provide assistance only when you pedal, with assist cut-off at 32km/h. They do not have a throttle and are generally allowed on city streets, bike lanes, and most mixed-use trails.
Class 2 (Throttle + Pedal Assist): Class 2 bikes can be powered by throttle, enabling motorized movement without pedaling, but are also capped at 32km/h. While popular for their accessibility, throttled riding is sometimes restricted, especially on trails and paths.
Class 3 (High Speed Pedal Assist): Designed for higher speeds, these provide pedal-assist up to 45km/h. Class 3 e-bikes are rare in Canada and almost never street-legal or trail-legal in Canadian cities, including Toronto.

Canadian Federal E-Bike Laws and Regulations

Canada’s federal regulations set strict standards for all e-bikes sold or operated nationwide:

Maximum Motor Output: 500W
Top Motor Assisted Speed: 32km/h
Operable Pedals: Required at all times (cannot be a scooter with pegs)
Classification Tag: Must comply with federal e-bike labeling

Exceeding these criteria reclassifies any e-bike as a moped or motorcycle, requiring registration, insurance, and a driver’s license.... as well as making it illegal to use on bike trails or without proper documentation.

Provincial and Localized E-Bike Laws: Ontario and Toronto

Ontario overlays the federal standards with additional provincial laws:

Minimum Age: 16 years old for all e-bike operators
Helmet Use: Mandatory for all riders and passengers, regardless of age
Maximum Vehicle Weight: 120kg (including battery)
Passengers: Only if the bike is designed for it, and passenger is at least 16
Operating Rules: No riding on sidewalks; e-bikes are allowed in bike lanes and most city streets, subject to local signage.

Toronto's Municipal Rules

Toronto has adopted local bylaws to regulate e-bikes further:

Helmet Laws: Helmets are required across all ages for e-bike users.
Where You Can Ride: E-bikes are always prohibited on sidewalks. Class 1 e-bikes (pedal assist) are allowed in bike lanes and on most mixed-use city trails and paths. Class 2 e-bikes (with throttle) may use roads and bike lanes but are typically banned from city parks, recreation and conservation area trails, and many multi-use paths, including the Don Valley Greenbelt and waterfront trails. Class 3 models are not legal for street or trail use.

Make sure to check your local laws and regulations before riding! Here is a good graphic to summarize micro mobility regulations. Courtesy of the City of Toronto.

At Ebikecan we believe in empowering riders with choice, and that extends to giving you control over your e-bike's performance characteristics. Our innovative 2025 model lineup stands out in the Canadian market by offering exceptional configuration flexibility, with most models available in both Class 1 and Class 2 configurations to match your specific riding needs and local regulations.

AURORA CORE Models:

Available as CLASS 1 or CLASS 2