What is "pedelec"

n. (context informal English) A bicycle with an electric motor which assists the rider but only while they are pedalling. (Contrast with an e-bike.)

A pedelec (from pedal electric cycle) is a bicycle where the rider's pedalling is assisted by a small electric motor; thus they are a type of low-powered e-bike. However, unlike some other types of e-bikes, pedelecs are classified as conventional bicycles in many countries by road authorities rather than as a type of electric moped. Pedelecs include an electronic controller which cuts power to the motor when the rider is not pedalling or when a certain speed – usually 25 km/h (15 MPH) – has been reached. Pedelecs are useful for people who ride in hilly areas or in strong headwinds. A pedelec can be any type of bicycle, but a pedelec city bike is very common. Ordinary conventional bicycles can be converted to pedelecs with the addition of the necessary parts, i.e. motor, battery etc.

In many places pedelecs are legally classed as bicycles rather than as mopeds or motorcycles. Other kinds of e-bikes, such as the more powerful S-Pedelecs and power-on-demand e-bikes (those whose motors can provide assistance regardless of whether the rider is pedalling or not) are often classed as mopeds or even motorcycles and the rider therefore must conform to the conditions that apply to users of those vehicles, e.g. being licensed, wearing a helmet, vehicle registration etc.