Elwing’s Yuvy is one of the very first two-seater electric bike models: an electrically assisted bicycle with a genuine, highly comfortable two-person seat for safely carrying a passenger.
As a couple, with friends, or with family, the options are numerous and the benefits are many, especially in the city.
But is a two-seater electric bike legal? What does French law say?
First distinction to make: what is the legal definition of an electric-assist bicycle?
The NF EN 15194 standard governs the design of electric bicycles and the application of safety checks to them. This regulation also defines the main criteria that make it possible to clearly distinguish between an electrically assisted bicycle and a moped.
The regulations define 3 essential criteria for identifying an electrically assisted bicycle (EAB):
- electric assistance is activated when pedaling;
- electric assistance cuts out as soon as the bicycle exceeds the maximum speed of 25 km/h;
- the motor power must not exceed 250 watts.
Mopeds (such as speed bikes, 50 cc scooters, Solex bikes, and other mopeds) are vehicles capable of traveling at speeds of up to 45 km/h and are subject to the Highway Code.
A speed bike is an electric bicycle with a more powerful motor and a maximum speed of 45 km/h. In France, this type of electric bicycle is classified as a moped, and its use is subject to certain conditions.
Unlike an EAB, a speed bike requires:
- a category A, B, or AM driving license (formerly BSR),
- a license plate,
- insurance,
- moped equipment (approved helmet, gloves, and a high-visibility vest outside built-up areas).
It is prohibited on cycle paths.
Elwing’s Yuvy is an approved EAB (electrically assisted bicycle)
With its speed limited to 25 km/h and its 250-watt motor, the Yuvy falls into the EAB category and is approved as such: it complies with the NF EN 15194 standard.
👉 Download the certificate of conformity
But an EAB... with two seats: is it still legal?
Elwing’s Yuvy is a compact cargo electric bicycle equipped with a two-person seat.
But what does the law say? Is it really legal for two people to ride on one bicycle?
The answer is yes!
Article R.431-5 of the Highway Code states :
"On motorcycles, motorized tricycles and quadricycles, mopeds, and cycles, passengers may only be carried on a seat attached to the vehicle and separate from the driver's seat. For the purposes of this article, a double seat or bench seat is considered to be two seats."
The Highway Code is clear: electric bicycles equipped with a two-person seat, which serves as a double seat, are entirely legal.
In compliance with safety rules
In France, the regulations and legislation governing the use of electric bicycles (EABs) aim to ensure the safety of cyclists as well as that of other road users.
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Wearing a helmet is mandatory for children under 12 and strongly recommended for everyone else.
- Electric bicycles must be equipped with lights (white or yellow at the front and red at the rear), reflectors (red at the rear, white or yellow at the front, orange on the sides and pedals), and an effective braking system.
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Wearing a high-visibility vest is mandatory outside built-up areas at night or when visibility is reduced.
- Taking out specific insurance for EABs (electrically assisted bicycles) is not mandatory, but all cyclists must have third-party liability insurance to cover any damage they may cause to third parties.
For more information:
Children and electric bicycles: at what age can you use an electric bicycle?
Derestricting an electric bicycle: what you need to know
How much does it cost to charge an electric bicycle?
How to transport children by bicycle: practical guide.
How to properly protect your electric bicycle against theft: we tell you everything!
Everything you need to know about cargo electric bicycles: buying guide and advice
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