E-bikes are the new preferred means of transport for city dwellers. The two-seater electric bike is increasingly appealing to many due to its practicality and ecological aspect, making it a perfect vehicle for everyday trips. This electric bike is gradually replacing cars and motorized two-wheelers. The question is: what are the legal regulations governing the use of a two-seater electric bike? Weebot answers this question in this article.
But first…
What exactly do we mean by a two-seater electric bike?
The two-seater electric bike is part of the family of e-bikes. As its name suggests, this electric bike is designed to transport two people at the same time. The vehicle is equipped with electric assistance that makes pedaling easier and has a wide seat for very comfortable rides. This type of bike is suitable for daily commutes in pairs in the city or for rides outside the urban area.
The two-seater electric bikes Garrett Miller are a perfect example. They stand out for their retro design and are approved for two-seater use with footrests designed for this purpose. They are among the most popular models currently.
Legal regulation of two-seater electric bicycles in France
In France, as in many other countries in Europe, two-seater electric bikes are subject to regulations regarding their use. Safety standards, user obligations… every legal aspect must be respected to ensure the safety of the rider.
The technical standards to be respected
According to the law: the power of the motors of two-seater electric bikes is limited to 250W, and the electric assistance is capped at 25 km/h. These characteristics directly classify them in the category of Electric Assisted Bikes (EAB).
These technical standards are defined by the NF EN 15194 standard, which regulates the manufacturing of electric bicycles in France. The certification ensures that the produced models comply with the safe transport of passengers.
The obligations that users must comply with
The use of e-bikes involves certain obligations for users. Wearing a helmet is the first point to be respected. It is mandatory for children under 12 years old and strongly recommended for adults. Users must also comply with the Highway Code, such as using bike lanes and the formal prohibition of riding on sidewalks. These rules aim to ensure a healthy and safe coexistence with other road users and to prevent accidents.
The specific case of modified electric bicycles
The law prohibits making modifications to the characteristics of an electric bike. These elements exist to ensure your safety, and their removal can turn the electric bike into a moped, subject to even stricter requirements (registration, insurance, etc.). This distinction is made to differentiate e-bikes from mopeds, and to guarantee the physical integrity of users.
The advantages of two-seater electric bikes
Two-seater electric bikes are very practical and meet the varied needs of users. Families, professionals, salespeople, delivery drivers, everyone can benefit from this vehicle of the future.
The benefits for families and city dwellers
The two-seater electric bike is presented as a suitable solution for families and city dwellers looking for an eco-friendly and practical vehicle for everyday use. It becomes an alternative to electric cars with a robust and practical design that allows for the safe transport of children and adults. You can enjoy your rides in pairs through the city streets without having to worry about parking or traffic jams. Not to mention, the electric assistance that makes trips easier by reducing the effort required for pedaling.
Which two-seater electric bike to choose?
You have finally decided to buy a two-seater electric bike to make your daily commutes easier. Invest in a versatile model with a load capacity that surpasses that of its counterparts.
Approved for two-seaters, the Garrett Miller electric bikes are equipped with a wide and comfortable seat, as well as a sturdy frame resistant to shocks.
Let's take the Garrett Miller City two-seater electric bike as an example. It is an iconic model in this category with its 20-inch Kenda knobby tires that are perfectly suited for daily use in the city and on country roads.
Take your partner or friend for a ride in this vehicle and enjoy together a pleasant-to-ride and easy-to-handle two-seater electric bike.
The legal obligations related to the subsidies for the purchase of a two-seater electric bicycle
Although many financial aids exist for the purchase of a two-seater electric bike, it is important to note that these are often subject to specific regulatory criteria.
Is your electric bike approved?
To benefit from certain subsidies or tax reductions, it may be necessary for your bicycle to meet specific standards defined by current legislation. For two-seater electric bicycles, the model must be approved according to European standards, such as the NF EN 15194 standard. This compliance ensures that the bicycle meets safety criteria, such as limiting the assistance speed and the power of the motor.
Is your electric bike eligible for assistance?
Certain aids may also be conditioned on the purchase of a specific model or a certified brand. Before you start your purchase, make sure to check if the bike you wish to acquire is eligible for the aids available in your region or at the national level. This will allow you to fully benefit from the financial advantages while complying with the legal requirements related to this mode of transport.
What would happen if I do not comply with the regulations for electric bicycles?
The non-compliance with the regulations for tandem electric bicycles exposes you to fines, complications in the event of an accident, and risks to your safety and that of other road users.
Fines and legal sanctions
If you modify your bike to remove the speed limit (that is, if you exceed 25 km/h of assistance), you could be penalized. In France, a fine of €68 is provided for using an e-bike that does not comply with safety regulations, such as removing the speed limiter or having an excessively powerful motor. If your bike is converted into a moped (if the speed exceeds 45 km/h), it may be considered a motor vehicle, subject to strict rules: registration, insurance, and a driving license, with fines of up to €750.
Security risks
Failure to comply with technical limits, such as increasing the power of the motor or removing the speed restriction, can make riding your bike much more dangerous. A bike that exceeds the limit of 250 W for a motor or that goes beyond 25 km/h of assistance becomes more difficult to control, especially in emergency situations. According to a study by the Maif Foundation, 37% of cyclists have been involved in an accident due to loss of control or ineffective braking. With a bike that is too powerful or too fast, these risks increase significantly. By adhering to the standards, you ensure that your bike is designed for safe riding.
Responsibility in case of accident
If you do not follow the rules (not wearing a helmet when it is mandatory for children under 12), you may be held responsible in the event of an accident. In the event of a collision, insurance companies may refuse to cover you if you are in violation, especially if you are riding a modified bike that does not meet safety standards. A study conducted by INSEE revealed that 65% of e-bike accidents are caused by human errors, such as excessive speeds or poor bike control. Therefore, not adhering to the standards can not only worsen injuries but also complicate the process of obtaining compensation.
Loss of financial aid
If your bike does not comply with European standards (if it does not meet the NF EN 15194 standard), you will probably not be eligible for subsidies or tax reductions. To receive a €500 aid for the purchase of an electric bike in Île-de-France, your bike must be approved. If you have a non-compliant model, you will lose this aid and will have to pay the full price. In 2022, the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations indicated that 90% of subsidy applications were rejected for bikes that did not meet safety criteria. These financial aids are there to encourage citizens to choose eco-friendly means of transport, but they are only granted if the rules are followed.
Control and verifications
In the event of a check by law enforcement, a non-compliant bicycle may be immobilized. If an officer finds that the bicycle exceeds safety standards (in the case of unauthorized modifications), they may order its removal from the circuit. This may incur additional costs if you need to repair or replace components of the bicycle to make it compliant. Furthermore, some checks may result in a temporary confiscation of your bicycle until it is brought up to standard, which may lead to additional delays and unforeseen costs.
Conclusion
Two-seater electric bikes represent an ideal solution for city dwellers in search of a lightweight and eco-friendly vehicle for daily use. Compliant with strict standards such as NF EN 15194, they ensure user safety and provide significant comfort for city rides. By investing in this type of vehicle, you guarantee a unique and enjoyable experience, especially if you choose recognized models like the Garrett Miller range.
At Weebot, we offer reliable and approved models for two-seaters, ideal for urban adventures and in the great outdoors. So why wait? Make this mode of transport your new ally for everyday journeys.