Belgium's laws and regulations on electric bicycles

Belgium's laws and regulations on electric bicycles (E-bikes) mainly involve vehicle classification, technical standards, rider qualifications, road use rules, and safety equipment requirements. The following are detailed regulations based on the organization of public information:

1、 Vehicle Classification and Technical Standards

1. Power and speed limitations
   • Ordinary electric bicycles: The maximum rated power is usually 250 watts, and the maximum design speed does not exceed 25 kilometers per hour (some sources mention 25 miles per hour, about 40 kilometers per hour, but subject to local regulations in Belgium). This type of vehicle is classified as a bicycle and can be driven on the road without a driver's license, insurance, or registration.
   • Speed Pedelecs: With a power output of up to 4000 watts and a top speed of 45 kilometers per hour (approximately 72 kilometers per hour). This type of vehicle is classified as a light motorcycle and is subject to motorcycle regulations, including registration, insurance, driver's license, and helmet requirements.
2. Vehicle structural requirements
   • It must be equipped with a pedal riding function, and the motor only provides assistance during riding (some models allow pure electric driving, but speed is limited).
   • The vehicle must comply with EU safety standards (such as EN 15194), including braking performance, lighting equipment, etc.

2、 Rider Qualifications and Equipment

1. age limit
   • Citizens aged 16 and above are allowed to ride electric bicycles with a power output of less than 1000 watts and a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour without the need for helmets.
   • Riding a high-speed electric bicycle (Speed Pedelecs) requires being at least 18 years old and holding a motorcycle license (such as A1 or A2).
2. SAFETY EQUIPMENT
   • Night riding requires turning on the headlights, otherwise you may face fines.
   • High speed electric bicycle riders must wear motorcycle helmets, while regular electric bicycle riders are recommended to wear helmets in some cases.

3、 Road Usage Rules

1. Driving lane
   • Ordinary electric bicycles should be driven on the bicycle lane or on the right side of the road.
   • On roads with a speed limit of 50 kilometers per hour or less on motor vehicle lanes, riders are free to choose between motor vehicle lanes or bicycle lanes; If the speed limit on the motor vehicle lane exceeds 50 kilometers per hour, the bicycle lane must be used.
2. Traffic signals and signs
   • Comply with all traffic signals and signs, including rules such as parking and yielding, priority passage, etc.
   • Use gestures to indicate when turning (such as extending your left arm when turning left or extending your right arm when turning right) to ensure safety.
3. Restrictions on manned and cargo transportation
   • Ordinary electric bicycles usually allow one child under the age of 12 to be carried (with a dedicated seat).
   • The height, width, and fixing method of the load must comply with safety standards to avoid affecting the stability of the vehicle.

4、 Registration, Insurance, and Penalties for Violations

1. Registration and License
   • Ordinary electric bicycles usually do not require registration or license plates.
   • High speed electric bicycles (Speed Pedelecs) need to be registered as motorcycles, hang license plates, and pay relevant taxes and fees.
2. Insurance requirements
   • Ordinary electric bicycles do not require mandatory insurance, but it is recommended to purchase third-party liability insurance.
   • High speed electric bicycles require the purchase of motorcycle insurance, which covers personal injury and property damage.
3. Violation punishment
   • Violations include speeding, running red lights, not wearing helmets (for high-speed vehicles), drunk driving, etc. Punishment measures include fines, deduction of points, and even revocation of driver's license.
   • The specific amount of fines varies depending on the severity of the violation, for example, failing to turn on the headlights may result in fines of tens of euros.

5、 Other precautions

• Vehicle modification: It is prohibited to remove speed limit devices or modify components such as motors and batteries, otherwise legal penalties may be imposed.
• Environmental requirements: Used batteries must be recycled according to solid waste management regulations and must not be discarded at will.
• Local regulations: Some cities or regions may have additional regulations (such as riding area restrictions, parking regulations, etc.), it is recommended to understand local policies before riding.

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