Fast e-bikes: Belgium tightens rules

As of October 1, 2016, any owner of an electric bike with a speed of more than 25 km / h must have a driver's license, a helmet and a license plate.

This new rule does not apply to "classic" e-bikes, the speed of which does not exceed 25 km / h, but only to "S-pedeles", the maximum speed of which can reach 45 km / h.

In Belgium, these S-pedelec, also called speed bikes or fast electric bikes, have a special status among mopeds. To use them, from October 1, they will have a mandatory driver's license, which will be reduced to simply passing an exam without a practical exam.

Other particularly penalty points for users: helmet wearing, registration and insurance become mandatory. What the hell is the market slowing down ...