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What are the rules for speed pedelecs (45 km/h e-bikes) in Denmark?

A fast e-bike with stricter rules.

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Short answer

A speed pedelec is not an e-bike in Danish law: its motor helps up to 45 km/h, and it must be EU type-approved as a two-wheeled motor vehicle in class L1e-A or L1e-B. Under a trial scheme that started on 1 July 2018 and has no end date, it may ride on the cycle path, and the rider must be at least 15 years old. Riders under 18 need a moped licence or must be in the trial for 17-year-old car drivers. You must wear a bike helmet, keep the lights on at all times and have liability insurance. Riding without a fastened, approved helmet has a guideline fine of 1,500 kr. as of 2025.

Transport and mobility

Why

  1. It may help up to 45 km/h.
  2. Helmet, lights and insurance are required.
  3. It rides on the cycle path under the trial.

Details

On the motor alone, without pedalling, a speed pedelec in the trial may go at most 20 km/h.

Tip

Check the type-approval papers before you buy one abroad, because an unapproved fast e-bike is not allowed on Danish roads.

What may differ

The rules come from a trial scheme, so they can change when the authorities end or adjust it.

Common misconception

A speed pedelec is just an e-bike, so the e-bike rules apply.

What actually happens

A speed pedelec is a type-approved motor vehicle with its own rules on age, helmet, lights and insurance.

People also ask

  • How fast can an e-bike go in Denmark?
  • What is the alcohol limit on a bike in Denmark?
  • Do you need a helmet to cycle in Denmark?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Cycling rules and services can change, so check the official sources before you ride.

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