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Plenty of electric bike riders get frustrated by their bike’s built-in speed limits. Removing the speed limiter can really open things up, but it’s not something to take lightly—there are some real risks and trade-offs.
You can usually remove an electric bike’s speed limiter in three main ways: digging into the display settings and entering manufacturer unlock codes, physically disconnecting or bypassing the speed sensor wire, or using third-party tuning devices that mess with the motor controller’s signals. Each option takes a different level of know-how—display tweaks are easiest, but messing with wires or sensors is a whole other level.
This guide lays out what you need to know before you mess with your e-bike’s speed limiter. We’ll get into the legal headaches, safety worries, how to prep your bike, compare the main ways to remove the limit, and even look at safer alternatives if you want more speed but don’t want to break the law or fry your ride.
What Is a Speed Limiter on an Electric Bike?
A speed limiter on an electric bike is basically a built-in control that stops the motor from helping once you hit a certain speed. The system uses either hardware or software to keep tabs on how fast you’re going, and it’ll cut the power when you reach the max allowed.
How Speed Limiters Work
These limiters constantly check your speed using sensors on the wheel or motor. When you pedal up to the preset limit, the system just dials back or shuts off the motor’s help.
Most setups use a magnetic sensor that counts wheel spins. As the wheel picks up speed, the sensor sends info to the controller. When the controller notices you’ve hit the max, it cuts the motor’s power. Pretty straightforward, really.
Main pieces involved:
- Wheel speed sensors
- Motor controllers
- Display units
- Magnetic pickup sensors
Some newer systems even use GPS to track speed, but honestly, most bikes stick with wheel-based sensors—they’re reliable and don’t break the bank.
Types of Speed Limiters: Hardware vs. Software
Hardware limiters use physical stuff like switches, magnets, and wires. They’re a pain to mess with since you have to actually remove or swap out parts.
Software limiters rely on code inside the bike’s controller. You can sometimes tweak these through the display or an app, though it’s not always obvious how.
| Type | Modification Difficulty | Cost | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware | High | Higher | Very High |
| Software | Medium | Lower | High |
Most modern e-bikes blend both. The hardware grabs speed data, and the software decides when to cut the juice.
Typical Speed Limits & Regional Differences
Speed limits really depend on where you live and what bike you have. In the U.S., most e-bikes top out at 20 mph for Class 1 and 2, and 28 mph for Class 3.
In the EU, the limit is 25 km/h (15.5 mph) for standard bikes, while speed pedelecs (which you have to register) can go up to 45 km/h (28 mph).
Usual speed limits by region:
- USA: 20-28 mph depending on class
- EU: 25 km/h (15.5 mph) standard
- Canada: 32 km/h (20 mph)
- Australia: 25 km/h (15.5 mph)
These limits keep e-bikes in the “bicycle” category legally. If you go faster, you could lose your warranty or even get in trouble with the law. Not fun.
Reasons to Remove the Speed Limiter
Lots of e-bike owners think about ditching the speed limiter to get more speed and tweak their ride. The reasons vary—sometimes it’s about squeezing out extra performance, sometimes it’s just personal taste.
Unlocking the Bike’s Full Potential
Most e-bikes ship with speed caps—usually 20-28 mph—mainly to stay legal, not because the hardware can’t handle more.
The motor and battery on many bikes can actually go a lot faster. If you remove the electric bike speed limiter, you might be surprised to see speeds of 35-40 mph or even more, depending on your setup.
What you might get by removing the limiter:
- Speed boost: 10-15 mph above stock
- Power: Snappier acceleration
- Hills: Easier climbing
- Range options: You can pick speed or battery life, depending on how you ride
Some folks find their rides just feel better without the limiter—flatter roads are less boring, and there’s more power when you want it.
Personal Preference and Customization
Customizing e-bikes has become a thing, especially for riders who want their bike to fit their life. Removing the speed limiter is one of the bigger mods you can do.
If you commute, going faster can help you keep up with traffic or shave minutes off your trip. That 20 mph cap can feel pretty slow next to cars or on roomy bike paths.
Why people customize:
- Adapting to different terrain
- Staying with faster riding groups
- Shortening the daily grind
- Just liking the feel of speed
Some riders just want the freedom to go faster, even if they don’t use it all the time. It’s about having the option, right?
Common Rider Motivations
Different riders have their own reasons for wanting to break past the speed limit. Knowing these motives explains why people keep doing it, risks or not.
Commuters usually want to save time. An extra 10 mph can really add up over a long route.
Recreational riders chase that rush from more speed and want to tackle tougher terrain. For them, the limiter just feels like an unnecessary hurdle.
Competitive cyclists might remove limiters to train harder or race in events where a standard e-bike just isn’t fast enough.
Rural riders often have big open spaces or private land where higher speeds are safe and totally legal. Why stick to city rules?
In the end, it’s all about your riding style and how comfortable you are with more speed.
Legal and Safety Considerations
Taking off the speed limiter isn’t just about going faster—it opens up a can of legal and safety worms. Most places have strict rules about e-bike speeds, and if you mess with your bike, you could lose insurance or warranty protection.
Laws and Regulations by Region
E-bike speed rules are all over the place depending on where you live. In the U.S., federal law says Class 1 and 2 bikes can assist up to 20 mph, Class 3 up to 28 mph.
In the EU, bikes are capped at 15.5 mph (25 km/h) with 250-watt motors. Go faster, and suddenly you need a license and registration—it’s now a motorcycle in the eyes of the law.
Regional speed limits at a glance:
- USA: 20-28 mph by class
- EU: 15.5 mph (25 km/h)
- Canada: 20 mph (32 km/h)
- Australia: 15.5 mph (25 km/h)
If you get caught with a souped-up bike, expect big fines—sometimes up to $1,000. Cops have started using radar guns to catch e-bikes speeding on paths and roads, so it’s not just an “if,” it’s a “when.”
Insurance and Warranty Implications
As soon as you modify your e-bike’s speed limiter, the warranty’s gone. Manufacturers won’t touch repairs if they spot any tampering.
Insurance companies are even pickier. Most policies won’t cover bikes that break speed laws, so you’re on the hook for any accidents, theft, or damage. Some even want proof your bike is legal before they’ll insure it, and a modded bike just won’t pass.
If you’re in an accident with a modified bike, courts might pin more blame on you for riding an illegal vehicle. That could get expensive fast.
Safety Risks and Responsible Riding
Going faster means bigger risks. E-bikes don’t have the brakes or safety features of motorcycles, which are built for these speeds.
Your battery drains way quicker at higher speeds, so you could end up stranded. Push the motor too hard and it can overheat, maybe even catch fire—seriously.
Biggest safety concerns:
- Harder to stop quickly
- Crashes hurt more
- Motor and battery can overheat
- You could lose access to bike paths
If you really need more speed, maybe just get a motorcycle or moped—they’re built for it and you’ll stay legal.
Also, a lot of bike paths ban modified e-bikes, so your riding options might shrink if you go this route.
Essential Preparation Before Modification
Before you even think about removing the speed limiter, you’ve got to make sure your bike can handle it and that you have the right tools. Skip this, and you could wreck your bike or waste your time.
Assessing Your Bike’s Compatibility
Not all e-bikes are created equal. Some have speed limiters buried in the motor controller, others use display settings or separate modules.
First, figure out your bike’s motor type. Hub motors and mid-drives use different speed controls—hub motors are usually simpler to hack.
Check your display unit for model numbers and the brand. Big names like Bafang, Bosch, and Shimano all do things their own way when it comes to speed control.
What to look for:
- Motor type (hub or mid-drive)
- Display model and brand
- Where the controller is and how easy it is to reach
- Firmware version (if it matters)
- Whether your warranty is still active
Your bike’s wiring matters too. Some have everything sealed up tight, making mods tough. Others have easy-to-access connectors, which makes your life a lot easier if you’re set on removing the limiter.
Gathering Tools and Equipment
Most speed limiter removal jobs just need some basic tools you probably already have. The exact stuff depends on how you plan to make the changes.
Essential tools for most e-bike modifications:
- Screwdriver set (both Phillips and flathead)
- Metric Allen keys
- Wire strippers
- Electrical tape
- Multimeter (for checking connections)
Certain bikes might call for special tools or extra parts. If you’re changing display settings, you might need a USB cable or some specific software. For wire work, soldering gear and heat shrink tubing can come in handy.
Snap a few photos of the original wiring before you start. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself if anything goes sideways.
Keep your bike’s manual and warranty info close. Some mods can void your warranty, so it’s smart to know what you’re risking before you dive in.
Methods to Remove the Speed Limiter
Electric bike riders can remove speed limiters by tweaking hardware or changing software. Hardware means actually messing with the bike’s parts, while software is all about reprogramming the digital controls.
Hardware Adjustment Techniques
Hardware tweaks put you in the driver’s seat when it comes to speed. You don’t need to be a pro mechanic, but you should be comfortable with basic tools.
Wire Cutting Method Probably the easiest way is to cut or unplug the speed sensor wire. This wire connects the sensor to the motor controller and tells the system how fast you’re going.
When you disconnect it, the controller loses track of your speed, so it won’t kick in the limiter anymore.
Sensor Relocation You can also move the speed sensor somewhere else—usually from the wheel to the pedal crank. This tricks the system into reading a slower speed than you’re really doing.
The result? The motor keeps helping you out, even past the normal speed cap.
Magnet Modification Some folks just remove or shift the magnets that trigger the speed sensor. Fewer magnets means fewer signals sent to the controller.
The controller thinks you’re going slower, so you get assistance at higher real speeds.
Software Modification Approaches
Software changes need digital tools, but they let you fine-tune speed settings. Here, you’re adjusting the bike’s programming instead of its hardware.
Display Unit Programming A lot of e-bikes let you adjust speed limits right from the display. Usually, you enter a hidden menu with a combo of button presses.
These menus often have speed limit settings you can raise—or even turn off. The exact steps depend on your bike brand and model.
Controller Firmware Updates If you’re up for it, you can flash new firmware onto the motor controller. You’ll need special software and some technical know-how.
This method wipes out the factory speed limits, but it can void your warranty or even mess up your bike if something goes wrong.
App-Based Modifications Some newer e-bikes let you use a smartphone app to tweak settings. With the right app, you can adjust or disable the speed limiter directly from your phone.
These changes sync with the bike’s computer and, honestly, they’re usually the least risky way to go about it—if your bike supports it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing the Speed Limiter
You’ll go through a few main steps: find the controller or display settings, locate the speed limiter bits, make your changes, and then test the bike to see if it worked.
Accessing the Controller or Settings
First, figure out where your e-bike keeps the speed limiter controls. Most bikes either use a physical controller box or a digital display menu.
If your bike has an LCD display, you’ll need to get into the settings. Usually, that means holding the power and plus/minus buttons for a few seconds, but every brand does it a little differently.
Common button combinations:
- Hold power + up arrow for 5 seconds
- Press power + down arrow + mode together
- Hold all three buttons for 3 seconds
Physical controllers usually sit near the battery or underneath the frame—gray or black boxes with the circuit boards inside. Sometimes, the controller hides inside the rear wheel hub motor.
Identifying Limiter Components
Once you’re in, look for the speed limiter settings or parts. Digital displays usually show speed limits in km/h or mph.
Check for menu items like “MAX SPEED,” “SPEED LIMIT,” or “P-SETTINGS.” The default is usually 25 km/h (15.5 mph) in Europe or 32 km/h (20 mph) in the US.
Physical controllers have small wires or jumper pins that handle speed limits. Typical components include:
- Speed sensor wire (thin wire going to the wheel)
- Jumper pins (tiny metal connectors)
- Circuit resistors (small electronic parts)
On some controllers, you can just unplug the speed limit wire completely.
Performing the Removal or Bypass
For digital displays, go into the settings and bump up the max speed. Most let you set it as high as 99 km/h, though your motor probably can’t hit that.
Save your new settings—usually by pressing the power button or following whatever the screen tells you. The display might flash or beep to let you know it worked.
For physical controllers, things get a bit more hands-on. The usual move is to disconnect the speed sensor wire. That wire sends wheel rotation info to the controller, which uses it to limit power.
Wire disconnection steps:
- Turn off the bike and take out the battery
- Find the thin speed sensor wire
- Carefully unplug it
- Tape up the loose end so it doesn’t get damaged
Some controllers use jumper pins—you might need to move or pull them out.
Verifying Successful Modification
After you’ve made the changes, turn the bike back on and check if the display shows the new speed settings.
Take your e-bike for a test spin somewhere safe and away from traffic. Slowly pick up speed and watch the speedometer. If all went well, you should be able to go faster than before, without the motor cutting out.
If it’s not working, double-check your connections and settings. Some bikes have backup limiters, so you might need to dig a little deeper.
Signs you did it right:
- Motor keeps giving power past the old limit
- Display shows higher speeds
- No sudden power cuts when you accelerate
Just remember: removing speed limiters can void your warranty and, in some places, make the bike illegal for street use. Know your local laws.
Post-Modification Tips and Adjustments
After you’ve taken off the speed limit, you’ll want to test out your bike and maybe tweak your maintenance habits. The battery will probably need more attention, and safety checks matter more than ever.
Testing Bike Performance After Removal
That first ride after a mod? Do it somewhere safe and easy to control. Start slow, then gradually go faster so you can feel how the bike handles at higher speeds.
See how the motor feels at different power levels. Sometimes, the ride feels a bit off or less smooth right after a mod. Usually, it gets better after a few rides.
Test the brakes at various speeds. Higher speed = longer stopping time, so you really want to know your brakes can handle it.
Key things to test:
- How quickly it accelerates
- Stability at top speed
- Brake response when going fast
- Battery drain rate
- How hot the motor gets
Watch your battery percentage during those first rides. Faster riding eats up more power and can shrink your range.
Maintaining Battery Life and Efficiency
Going faster drains your battery much quicker—expect about 20-30% less range if you’re always pushing top speed.
Charge up more often to avoid deep discharges. Letting your battery drop too low too often can cut its lifespan by almost half.
Try to keep your charge between 20% and 80% when you can. That sweet spot helps the battery last longer.
Battery Care Tips:
- Don’t ride at max speed for long stretches
- Store your bike where it’s 50-77°F
- Clean the battery contacts once a month
- Check for any loose wires or connectors
If you notice the battery heating up weirdly or losing power fast, it could be a sign it’s wearing out sooner than you’d like.
Ongoing Maintenance and Safety Checks
Give your bike a weekly once-over for loose bolts, especially around the motor and battery. Faster speeds shake things up more, so stuff can loosen.
Check tire pressure before every ride. It matters more at high speed—for safety and for keeping things efficient.
Peek at your brake pads every month. They’ll wear out faster now, so swap them if they’re looking thin.
Monthly safety checklist:
- Brake pad thickness
- Tire tread depth
- Chain tension and lube
- Spoke tightness
- All electrical connections
Keep your bike clean, especially around the electronics. Dirt and moisture can cause trouble with your new speed setup.
Alternatives to Removing the Speed Limiter
If you’re not into messing with factory settings, there are legal ways to go faster and stay safe. Custom e-bikes, tuning kits, and upgraded parts can all boost your speed without trashing your warranty.
Custom E-Bike Models with Higher Limits
Some brands sell e-bikes with higher speed limits built in. These usually fall into different classes that let you legally go faster.
Class 3 e-bikes hit up to 28 mph in most places. They’re great for commuters who want to move quickly without breaking the law.
European makers like Stromer and Specialized have models built for speed, with beefier motors and better parts to keep things safe at higher speeds.
Some popular high-speed e-bikes:
• Stromer ST5 – 28 mph top speed, 983Wh battery
• Specialized Turbo Vado – Class 3 speed, built-in lights
• Trek Super Commuter+ – Urban-focused, 28 mph
• Riese & Müller Supercharger – Premium, dual batteries
The catch? These bikes aren’t cheap. Expect to shell out anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 for a solid high-speed model.
Using Aftermarket Tuning Kits
Tuning kits sit between sticking with factory settings and going all-in on removing speed limiters. Instead of permanently changing your bike, these gadgets just fool the computer system for as long as you want.
Popular tuning devices like SpeedBox, PearTune, and Volspeed usually run between $150 and $400. Most folks can install one in around half an hour, give or take.
They intercept the speed sensor signal, so the bike thinks you’re cruising slower than you actually are. As a result, the motor keeps helping you out past the usual cutoff.
Here’s how installation typically goes:
• Unplug the speed sensor cable
• Plug in the tuning kit
• Reconnect everything through the new device
• Give it a quick test ride and see what’s changed
The best part? You can usually pull these kits out whenever you want. If you need warranty work or want to stay within the law, just swap back to the original setup.
Upgrading Components for Better Performance
Honestly, sometimes the speed limiter isn’t what’s holding you back. Swapping out certain parts can boost your ride’s performance without ever touching the software.
Battery upgrades make a huge difference. If you bump up to a higher voltage—say, 52V instead of 36V—you’ll get more juice to the motor. That means snappier acceleration and higher cruising speeds.
Motors are another upgrade path. Mid-drive options like Bafang’s BBSHD can replace stock motors, offering more power and sometimes extra tuning options.
Other tweaks worth considering:
• Tires with lower rolling resistance for less drag
• Gear ratio changes—swap out chainrings or cassettes to hit your ideal speed range
• Aero upgrades—tweak your riding position or add accessories to slice through the wind
• Drop some weight—lighter parts mean quicker acceleration
Controllers deserve a quick shoutout. Many e-bikes come with pretty tame settings that cap your peak power. Aftermarket controllers can unlock more punch without ditching safety features.
Final Thoughts
You can remove speed limits on electric bikes, sure, but it’s not something to mess with casually. It’s worth pausing to ask: do the perks really outweigh the risks for you?
Here are the main ways folks go about it:
• Display modification – Pretty straightforward, though you might kiss your warranty goodbye.
• Controller adjustment – Takes more know-how, but it works well.
• Magnet repositioning – A sneaky little trick if your e-bike uses sensors.
Safety really comes first with a de-limited e-bike. Faster speeds mean you’ll need more room to stop, and if you do crash? The consequences get nastier.
Laws can get weird, too. Some places let you ride faster bikes on certain roads, but others crack down hard on any modifications.
Ask yourself how you actually ride before tweaking anything. If you commute on empty paths every day, maybe you’d appreciate the extra zip. But if you’re a weekend trail explorer, do you really need it?
The electric bike speed limiter removal process isn’t just about the tech—local laws and your own safety should factor in, big time.
More speed isn’t always a win. Those stock limits exist for a reason: they keep you safer and your bike street legal.
If you’re even considering this, check your local rules first. And honestly, if you’re going to go faster, why not invest in a better helmet and brighter lights, too?
