How to Remove the Speed Limiter on an Electric Bike?

Electric bikes have revolutionized personal transportation, offering an eco-friendly and efficient way to get around. However, many riders eventually find themselves bumping up against one frustrating limitation—the speed cap. Most e-bikes come with a built-in speed limiter that restricts motor assistance once you reach a certain threshold, typically 25 km/h (15.5 mph) or 32 km/h (20 mph), depending on the region. In this guide, we’ll break down what a speed limiter is, how it works, and the various methods to disable it. Before you take that extra speed boost, read on to make sure you’re informed and prepared.

Understanding the Speed Limiter

Before attempting to remove the speed limiter on your electric bike, it’s essential to understand what it does and how it functions. The speed limiter is a built-in safety and regulatory feature that governs the maximum speed at which the motor will assist you.

What Is a Speed Limiter?

A speed limiter is a control mechanism, either in hardware or software, that restricts the top speed of motor assistance on an e-bike. Once you reach a certain speed—typically 25 km/h (15.5 mph) in many countries—the motor cuts off, and you must pedal unassisted to go faster. This doesn’t prevent you from riding at higher speeds; it just means the motor won’t help you beyond the set threshold.

Manufacturers install speed limiters to comply with local laws and safety standards, as e-bikes without such limits might be reclassified as mopeds or motorcycles, requiring a license and registration.

How Do Speed Limiters Work?

Speed limiters operate based on feedback from sensors on your bike. Most systems rely on a combination of speed sensors, cadence sensors, or torque sensors. The speed sensor monitors how fast the wheels are rotating, and when it detects that the bike is moving faster than the preset limit, it signals the controller to reduce or stop motor power.

The limiter’s actual enforcement is usually done through the bike’s controller and firmware. The controller receives the speed signal and checks it against the limit stored in its settings. If the threshold is exceeded, it stops sending current to the motor.

Types of Speed Limiters

There are two primary types of speed limiters:

Software-Based Limiters: These are implemented through firmware and controlled via the bike’s onboard computer or app interface. Software limiters are usually more sophisticated and can sometimes be bypassed through settings or reprogramming.
Hardware-Based Limiters: These are physical components, such as circuit wiring or speed sensor magnets, that are configured to enforce speed restrictions. Hardware limiters are generally harder to modify but still possible to adjust with the right tools and knowledge.

Understanding which type your bike uses is crucial before attempting any modifications, as the process for removing or bypassing the limiter will vary depending on the system design.

Speed Limit Regulations by Region

Speed limits for electric bikes differ around the world. In the EU and UK, the motor-assist cutoff is typically set at 25 km/h (15.5 mph). In the US, Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are limited to 20 mph (32 km/h), while Class 3 bikes can assist up to 28 mph (45 km/h). Exceeding these limits through modification can lead to legal issues if you’re riding on public roads, especially if your bike is no longer classified as an e-bike.

Preparation Before Modification

Before you attempt to remove the speed limiter from your electric bike, proper preparation is critical. This step helps you avoid costly mistakes, ensure safety, and stay aware of the potential legal implications. Rushing into modifications without preparation can damage your bike or result in unsafe riding conditions.

Check Local Laws and Regulations

One of the first and most important steps is understanding the legal framework in your area. In many countries, electric bikes are classified based on speed and motor power. If you remove the speed limiter and exceed the legal limit, your bike may be reclassified as a motor vehicle, subject to additional rules such as mandatory insurance, licensing, and helmet requirements.

For instance, in the EU, an e-bike is legally defined as a bicycle with pedal assistance up to 25 km/h. In the US, the classification system ranges from Class 1 to Class 3, each with its own speed and access rules. Bypassing the limiter may make your bike illegal on bike paths or public roads. Always review your local transportation authority’s guidelines before modifying your bike.

Assess the Risks Involved

Removing the speed limiter might sound appealing, but it comes with several trade-offs. First, it can compromise your safety. Higher speeds increase the risk of accidents, especially if your brakes, tires, and suspension aren’t designed for such performance. Riders also need to adjust to the different handling dynamics that come with faster speeds.

Second, tampering with the limiter can void your manufacturer’s warranty. Most e-bike companies explicitly state that any unauthorized modifications to the electrical system will nullify warranty coverage. That means if something goes wrong—even unrelated to the speed limiter—you might be left to cover repair or replacement costs yourself.

Battery life is another consideration. Riding at higher speeds consumes more energy, which can reduce your range significantly and lead to faster battery degradation over time.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Depending on the method you choose, you may need various tools or accessories to perform the modification. Basic tools could include screwdrivers, Allen keys, a multimeter, or a wire cutter. If you’re working with tuning kits or dongles, be sure to purchase ones compatible with your bike’s motor system.

Some modifications also require access to a computer with software for firmware updates or reprogramming. In such cases, you’ll also need a data cable and possibly technical support documentation from the manufacturer or user forums.

It’s a good idea to work in a clean, well-lit space and consider watching video tutorials or reading walkthroughs specific to your bike model. Having everything ready before you start can save time and prevent errors.

Backup and Document Current Settings

If your bike allows access to configuration settings through a display or app, make a note of all the original settings before making any changes. Taking photos or screenshots is a simple way to ensure you can revert back if needed.

For more advanced software modifications, back up the existing firmware or controller configuration if possible. This step is crucial in case the new settings cause unexpected behavior or performance issues.

Methods to Remove the Speed Limiter

Removing the speed limiter on an electric bike can be done in several ways, depending on your bike’s make and model. Some methods are simple and reversible, while others may require technical skills or additional tools.

1. Software-Based Limiter Removal

Many modern e-bikes come with programmable settings accessible through the bike’s display unit or companion mobile app. Some manufacturers allow users to modify performance parameters, including the maximum assisted speed, within certain limits.

For example, on systems like Bosch or Bafang, you may be able to access a hidden service menu by pressing a specific button combination. Once inside, look for the “speed limit” or “wheel size” settings. Increasing the wheel size can trick the bike into thinking it’s going slower than it actually is, thereby increasing the maximum assisted speed.

Another method involves connecting the bike to a computer using a USB interface and manufacturer-specific software. Some DIYers use third-party software or firmware hacks to override the speed limits, though this carries a risk of bricking the controller or voiding the warranty.

2. Tuning Kits and Dongles

If your e-bike is not easily modifiable via software, a popular alternative is using a tuning kit or dongle. These aftermarket devices are installed between the speed sensor and the controller. They work by manipulating the signal sent to the controller, usually by halving the speed data. This tricks the motor into thinking the bike is moving slower, allowing it to provide assistance beyond the preset limit.

Tuning kits are often brand-specific and come with plug-and-play connectors for easy installation. Some even include switches or Bluetooth connectivity for toggling the limiter on and off. However, these kits can be expensive and may still impact warranty and safety.

3. Modifying or Relocating the Speed Sensor

Another method involves tampering with the speed sensor itself. The sensor, usually located near the rear wheel or crank, calculates your speed based on wheel rotations. By relocating the sensor to a slower-moving part of the bike (like the crank arm), you can reduce the recorded speed, thereby lifting the limiter’s effect.

In some cases, users attach a second magnet or modify the placement of the original magnet to alter the signal pattern. This approach requires some trial and error and might affect the accuracy of speed readouts on the display.

4. Disconnecting the Limiter Wires

On certain e-bike models, especially those with simpler controllers, it’s possible to physically disconnect the wires that control the speed limiter. This method typically involves opening the controller casing and identifying the correct wires based on a schematic or color coding. Once disconnected or rerouted, the bike operates without a speed cap.

This method is the most invasive and poses a higher risk of damaging the electrical system or voiding the bike’s warranty. It should only be attempted by those with experience in bike electronics or under professional guidance.

Enjoyed this guide of how to remove speed limiter on an electric bike? Then be sure to check out our other ebike guides.