This page explains French rules. Before using a bicycle converted with a motor kit on a road open to public traffic, check the category and conformity of the complete bicycle.
When does a bicycle remain a pedelec?
Under Article R311-1, 6.11 of the French Highway Code, an electrically assisted pedal cycle must meet all three conditions:
- The auxiliary electric motor has a maximum continuous rated power of 0.25 kW, or 250 W. This means continuous rated power, rather than peak power or battery capacity.
- Assistance supports pedalling and stops when the rider stops pedalling.
- Motor power is progressively reduced and then cut off when the bicycle reaches 25 km/h.
Do not confuse a possible walk-assist function with general permission to ride using a throttle without pedalling: the conformity of that function must be checked for the bicycle concerned.
Safety and conformity of the complete bicycle
The bicycle must also meet the safety requirements applicable to bicycles, particularly Decree No. 2016-364: braking, lighting, reflectors and an audible warning device. A pedelec is also subject to applicable machinery safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements; check the CE marking and declaration of conformity for the complete bicycle.
Installing a kit requires checking frame strength, braking, component compatibility, instructions and the conformity of the whole assembly. A “250 W” label on a part, or a speed setting alone, does not establish the conformity of a converted bicycle.
Kits and configurations outside the pedelec category
Some kit configurations may exceed the pedelec criteria. A vehicle outside these criteria may fall into another regulatory category, with requirements for approval, registration, insurance and equipment. Selling a kit does not prove that the converted bicycle is authorised for public-road use.
Until conformity and any required authorisations for public-road use have been established, do not use that configuration on a road open to the public. Off-road use must be limited to suitable private land closed to public traffic, with the owner’s permission and with safety rules observed. A privately owned road open to the public is insufficient.