Electric bikes are a practical, economical, enjoyable, and reliable means of transportation for daily trips. Cycling in the city increased by 34% in 2022, and the path is clear for this number to keep growing (2024, the year of the bike).
This practice is therefore fully embraced by adults, but the question often arises about the use of electric bikes by younger riders.
Can a child use an electric bike? What are the conditions to meet? The equipment? The rules regarding road safety?
Follow the guide.
Regulations in France on electric bikes
When talking about electric bikes, a first distinction is made between e-bikes (electric-assist bikes) and speed bikes.
For electric-assist bikes (e-bikes), a category that includes the Yuvy by Elwing, European legislation sets a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
For speed bikes, the fast electric bikes, the maximum speed rises to 45 km/h and the rules on usage conditions are stricter.
Depending on the type of vehicle, the conditions for use by younger riders are therefore not the same.
E-bike
Definition and conditions of use
An e-bike (electric-assist bike) is a bike equipped with a rechargeable battery and a motor. The electric assistance must only operate when the rider pedals and must cut off when pedaling stops. The motor power must not exceed 250 watts, the speed is limited to 25 km/h, and the batteries must be recyclable.
Using an e-bike does not require a license, registration, or insurance (although insurance is recommended).
An e-bike can be ridden on bike lanes.
Minimum age to ride an e-bike (electric-assist bike)
As with traditional bikes, there is currently no minimum age to ride an electric bike off the road: indeed, country paths, forest trails, and private grounds are considered less dangerous than roads.
To be allowed to ride on bike lanes or the roadway, the law requires being over 8 years old:
- Article R. 412-34-1 bis of the Highway Code currently prohibits children under eight years old from riding bicycles on the roadway.
- Article R110-2 of the Highway Code defines a bike lane as a "roadway exclusively reserved for two- or three-wheeled cycles and motorized personal mobility devices" (including pedal-assist bikes), used by riders over 8 years old.
In case of violation, the child's legal guardians may be fined.
Speed bike
Definition and conditions of use
A speed bike is therefore an electric bike with a maximum speed of 45 km/h.
In France, this type of electric bike is classified as a moped and its use is subject to certain conditions.
Unlike an e-bike, a speed bike requires a driving license A, B, or AM (formerly BSR), a license plate, insurance, and moped equipment (approved helmet, gloves, yellow vest outside urban areas). The speed bike must also have a front light and a brake light.
Speed bikes are prohibited on bike lanes.
Minimum age to ride a speed bike
According to Article R211-2 of the Highway Code, any moped rider must be at least fourteen years old and hold the road safety certificate if under sixteen.
To ride a speed bike in France, you must be at least 14 years old.
Riding safely
If your child or teenager is going to use an electric bike, safety is essential.
Since March 22, 2017, the law requires children under 12 years old to wear an approved helmet. The helmet must be the right size and properly fastened and closed.
After this age, it is no longer mandatory but strongly recommended for safe and confident riding.
On a bike, it is also essential for your children to see and be seen and to have complete equipment. For children, a yellow vest or reflective adhesive strips on the bag or coat can be a good solution, especially at night and in bad weather.
Wearing a yellow vest is actually mandatory outside urban areas, day or night, in case of poor visibility.
If your bike is a rental bike, the same safety equipment compliance requirements apply.
Technical constraints: size
For younger riders to use an electric bike, it must be adapted to their size.
Our two-seater cargo bike Yuvy is suitable for a person whose height is at least 1.60 m. It is therefore not suitable for everyone, but there are other options to take your child on our compact cargo bike.
What if I want to transport my child on my electric bike?
Transporting your child on your own electric bike is perfectly possible provided the child is at least 9 months old (the age when the baby starts to have enough strength to sit up alone).
The Yuvy by Elwing is a compact two-seater cargo bike designed for families. Children are therefore part of the equation. The motor is adapted to remain efficient when carrying multiple passengers.
There are several ways to take your children with you:
- Your passenger can sit on the two-seater saddle as long as their feet reach the footrests. To reach the footrests, the child must be at least 1.50 m tall.
- You can also transport your children on an electric bike with an approved front or rear seat certified NF. A trailer can also be a very good option for carrying several children.
Find our full guide on transporting children.
Safe travels!
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