Up, Up & Away: Upway’s Fastest Electric Bikes

Written by: Rémy Rossi | February 25, 2025 Time to read 5 min

Upway’s fastest electric bikes clock in at a top speed of 28 mph, the legal limit for e-Bikes in the US. Check out these Class 3 e-Bikes built for the speed demons among us.

More about the Author: Remy Rossi

Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.

Bosch electric bike handlebars and displays

They call the US the “Land of the Free” and that claim rings true when it comes to electric bikes— up to certain limits, of course. The maximum allowed speed of an e-Bike in the States is 28 mph (45 km/h) while Europe limits its pedal-assist bikes to a top speed of around 15 mph (25 km/h).

So if you’re a rider with a need for speed, you can thank your lucky stars for the more generous electric bike regulations we have here. But with great power comes great responsibility and riding fast means you need to take even more precautions to ensure a safe ride for yourself and the people around you. For cyclists interested in the fastest e-Bikes in Upway’s huge inventory, I’ve dropped all the information you need below!

What is a Class 3 e-Bike?

In the US, electric bikes are categorized into three classes based on the type and speed of assistance they provide. Class 3 e-Bikes are the fastest and provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph but lack a throttle. Class 1 and Class 2 e-Bikes are limited to 20 mph, with Class 2 models featuring a throttle for on-demand power.

The added speed of Class 3 e-Bikes can be great for commuters looking to match the pace of faster-moving traffic. However, due to their higher speeds, they may be restricted on specific paths and trails. Be sure to check local e-Bike regulations before taking your super speedy e-Bike for a spin.


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What is the fastest electric bike in Upway’s inventory?

Upway mechanic standing next to Specialized ebike in stand
Customers can find Upway’s fastest electric bikes in our wide selection of Class 3 models— these speedy e-Bikes all provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph. The large majority of these bikes are hybrid or city e-Bikes so you can navigate streets quickly and boost your commute. There are also a handful of road electric bikes and fast cargo bikes, including the Momentum PakYak E+ and Specialized Globe Haul LT.

It’s relatively rare to find a folding e-Bike or electric mountain bike that can go up to 28 mph. Folding bikes prioritize practicality and have to optimize space, often sacrificing top-end speed for the save of portability. Most trails that allow pedal-assist bikes limit speeds to 20 mph which means that only Class 1 e-Bikes are permitted to ride in those areas.

Note: Watch out for “classless” or illegal electric bikes that bend (or completely disregard) speed regulations. Some e-Bikes can be unlocked to reach speeds beyond 28 mph or provide throttle assistance beyond the allowed 20 mph on Class 2 e-Bikes. Many states are cracking down on these unregulated and overly fast electric bikes, including California’s new 2025 e-Bike law that narrows the definition of permitted electric bikes.

Recommended 28 mph e-Bikes from Upway

Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0 EQ

Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0 EQ electric bike

Lightweight & fast best-seller

Some e-Bikes simply look lightning-fast and efficient from the get-go. And this is the case with the Specialized Turbo Vado SL 4.0 EQ. This fast electric bike is designed for city riding, built around a slim frame and custom-tuned Specialized motor capable of speeds up to 28 mph. The unique setup has a completely integrated battery to save frame space and increase battery capacity, though it’s not removable.

The EQ version comes fully equipped with fenders, a rear rack, and integrated lights to get you ready for urban riding. I’ve been a big fan of the sleek Turbo Vado 4.0 for a while and the Upway community understands the hype too, pushing this model to best-seller status. If you want a more comfort-oriented e-Bike, the standard Specialized Turbo Vado SL is perfect for weekend outings and recreational riding.

Gazelle Ultimate T10+

Gazelle Ultimate T10+ electric bike
The ultimate, speedy city machine

The historic Gazelle brand from the Netherlands is an expert when it comes to premium city electric bikes. The Gazelle Ultimate T10+ is powered by a fast Bosch mid-drive motor that boosts up to 28 mph. Like the Vado, this hybrid bike comes fully loaded with commuting accessories and even includes a wheel lock for additional security. Sometimes the most elegant option is the fastest one and the Ultimate T10+ shows off its performance.

Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 1

Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 1 electric bike


The quickest & most comfortable Cannondale

“Tesoro” is Spanish for treasure and the Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 1 is the fastest way to ride to pirates’ booty. The hybrid e-Bike offers a fast setup with comfort-enhancing additions such as a suspension seatpost and front suspension. 


I appreciate the partially covered drivetrain to prevent any clothes snags or stains when commuting and the sleek rear rack to attach panniers or a top bag. Bosch’s fastest motor, the Performance Line Speed model, powers the Tesoro up to 28 mph when you need to keep up with cars or zoom through the streets.  


Key Takeaways


  1. Class 3 e-Bikes provide top speed: Class 3 e-Bikes provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph, making them the fastest legally permitted e-Bikes.
  2. Upway’s fastest e-Bikes are great for commuting: Upway carries a range of high-speed Class 3 electric bikes, primarily hybrid and city models, designed for quick and efficient urban travel.
  3. Ride within the speed limit: Some e-Bikes can be unlocked to exceed 28 mph, violating regulations. Riders should ensure compliance with local laws and posted speed limits.




There is more to Explore

Visit below articles for more info about electric bikes 

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NYC’s Congestion Pricing and What It Means for Commuters

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Everything You Need to Know About the California E-Bike Voucher

Aventon Electric Bike

Are Class 3 E-Bikes Legal in California? 2025 Update