The specifications for an e-bike often list 250 watts, sometimes 500 or even 750 watts. That sounds like more power—but is that even legal? What makes sense? And what role does peak power play in comparison to the legally permitted continuous power? This article sheds some light on the matter and shows why 250 watts is often more than you think.

Watt is watt – or is it?

When it comes to motor power, people often talk about watts . But it's worth taking a closer look:

• Rated continuous power : The motor power that can be delivered continuously over a certain period of time (usually 30 minutes). In the EU, this limit is 250 watts – more is legally permitted if you want to ride an e-bike without a driver's license.

• Peak power : This is the short-term power a motor can deliver—for example, when starting on an incline or overtaking. This can be well over 250 watts— sometimes up to 600 or 750 watts , depending on the manufacturer.

What many people don't know: Even e-bikes with a rated continuous power of 250 watts can deliver very powerful peak power for short periods , especially when combined with high torque (e.g., Bosch Performance Line CX or Shimano EP8). So, it's not just the wattage on paper that matters – it 's how the motor is controlled .

What is allowed – and what is not: EU regulations for e-bikes

In the EU, there are clear regulations about what an e-bike can and cannot do:

• Max. rated continuous power: 250 watts

• Pedal assistance only up to 25 km/h

• Motor support only when pedaling

• No driving license, no insurance, no registration required

Anyone who wants more power—for example, with 500 or 750 watts of continuous power or assistance over 25 km/h—no longer rides a traditional e-bike, but an S-Pedelec or even a moped . Stricter rules apply: helmets, license plates, and use on the road instead of on bike paths.

These rules not only protect other road users, but also the e-bike riders themselves – because with higher speeds, the risk of accidents also increases significantly.

Why watts alone are not everything: Torque, range & energy efficiency count more

Many buyers base their e-bike purchase on wattage – but the motor's power alone only tells half the story . Torque , energy consumption , and the type of motor support are far more important for the riding experience.

👉 A motor with only 250 watts of rated continuous power can – if well-tuned – perform more than you'd think . A key criterion is torque , i.e., the power the motor provides when pedaling. Modern motors achieve 60 to 85 Nm of torque, which is particularly noticeable on inclines or when starting off with luggage . → More on e-bike torque (35 Nm, 45 Nm, 65 Nm, 85 Nm)

💡 And how much torque is actually sensible? Here, too, more isn't always better. Especially for relaxed rides or in city traffic, a medium torque is often sufficient – you can find out exactly what "torque" means here .

Anyone who thinks a more powerful motor automatically improves everything is underestimating the connection with energy consumption : The higher the power, the faster the battery drains. That's why many manufacturers rely on smart support modes like Eco Mode , which enables a longer range with less energy consumption. Here you can read how Eco Mode works and when it's worth it .

🔋 Speaking of range : The type of battery installed is also crucial – and how efficiently the motor and power supply work together. A motor that's too large quickly negates the advantage of a powerful battery. If you want to know how much battery power fits into a bike frame and what's important when buying a battery, you'll find the relevant information here: → The most powerful e-bike battery – how much power fits into a bike frame?

It's not the wattage, but the interplay of torque, support modes, energy efficiency, and battery capacity that determines the riding experience. Those who pay close attention to these factors will make more sustainable and sensible decisions – regardless of the supposedly "greater" motor power.

Why 250 watts are often completely sufficient

The notion that 250 watts is too little is widespread—but often unfounded. Modern e-bikes with well-tuned motors, sensors, and software can achieve astonishingly high performance with this power:

• In city traffic : 250 watts is completely sufficient – the support when starting off and on small inclines makes everyday life noticeably easier.

• On tour : In combination with good torque , modern e-bikes can handle even long climbs without breaking a sweat.

• For commuters : Those who drive 10-20 km daily save time and money – and reach their destination without traffic jams and the hassle of searching for a parking space.

The 250-watt rule also offers a major advantage: no driver's license required and a high degree of flexibility . No registration, no MOT, no insurance – this makes e-bikes accessible to millions of people.

And what about 500 or 750 watts?

In the US, 500 or 750 watts of continuous power are perfectly normal for e-bikes – different regulations apply there. In Europe, however, such models are usually:

• Either designed for off-road use (e.g. hunting, trail or fat bikes )

• Or classified as an S-Pedelec , which entails additional requirements

• Or illegally tuned – which is problematic from a legal and safety perspective

For specific applications—such as cargo bikes that transport heavy goods or e-bikes in very mountainous terrain —a higher motor power may be advisable. However, this is only possible with appropriate approval and regulatory compliance.

E-bike instead of car? 250 watts for mobility change

Especially in urban areas , e-bikes are increasingly replacing cars . And rightly so:

• No CO₂ emissions during operation

• No parking problem

• Low costs (electricity instead of fuel, no insurance, hardly any maintenance)

• Exercise included – promotes health and well-being

With 250 watts, the e-bike is a quiet, efficient, and environmentally friendly means of transport , perfectly adequate for everyday use. And that's precisely where its strength lies: the combination of freedom, simplicity, and efficiency.

Conclusion: Engine performance with measure and sense

Whether 250, 500, or 750 watts—the deciding factor is what you really need and what's permitted . For 90% of users, modern 250-watt e-bikes are more than sufficient—and offer all the advantages: legal certainty, no driver's license required, and suitability for everyday use.

More power can make sense in certain cases – but it should be used consciously, legally and safely.

If you want to use an e-bike as a real vehicle - for work, shopping or as a car replacement - 250 watts is not only legal, but usually also the best option .