In Canada, e-bikes are legally restricted to a maximum motor-assisted speed of 32 km/h (20 mph). This regulation is consistent across all provinces and territories, creating a unified standard that differs from other markets like the United States, where Class 3 e-bikes can reach 45 km/h (28 mph).
The 32 km/h limit exists for several important reasons. It helps maintain e-bikes’ classification as bicycles rather than motor vehicles, allowing riders to use bike lanes and avoid licensing requirements. The motor must also be limited to 500 watts maximum power output, and bikes must have fully operable pedals. Importantly, while the motor stops providing assistance at 32 km/h, riders can still pedal faster using their own leg power, just like on a regular bicycle.
This regulatory framework has created a unique market dynamic: since virtually every legal e-bike in Canada reaches the same maximum assisted speed, manufacturers compete on other factors like build quality, range, comfort, and features rather than pure top speed. This has led to remarkably sophisticated e-bikes that maximize performance within the legal constraints.
Leading Canadian E-Bike Manufacturers and Their Fastest Models
HeyBike Canada
HeyBike, while originally founded in the US, has established a strong presence and manufacturing in the Canadian market with models specifically designed for Canadian regulations. Their fastest models include:
HeyBike Brawn: Boasting a powerful 1200W peak motor and an impressive top speed of 28 mph (45 km/h), this bike is designed primarily for off-road use. For Canadian road use, it’s electronically limited to comply with the 32 km/h regulation.
HeyBike Ranger S: Features a 750W motor (Peak 1400W) with 80 Nm torque and can reach speeds up to 28 mph in off-road mode. This folding step-through design makes it accessible for riders of all abilities while still delivering impressive performance.
HeyBike Mars 2.0: An affordable multi-purpose folding bike with a 750W motor that temporarily boosts to 1400W peak power for comfortable rides on all terrains. The newer Mars 3.0 can accelerate from 0 to 20 mph in just six seconds and features Heybike’s new Galaxy Perform eDrive System.
ENVO
ENVO represents truly homegrown Canadian innovation, with founder Ali Khazemkhani having introduced the first generation of ENVO electrically converted bicycles in 2002. Their fastest models include:
ENVO D50: This powerhouse is equipped with a sealed, powerful geared hub motor delivering over 1000W peak power, with a maximum torque of 80Nm and a top speed of up to 45 km/h. However, for Canadian road use, it’s limited to 32 km/h. The bike can easily switch between Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 e-bike modes.
ENVO ST50: Features a powerful 750W motor with 80Nm torque and can reach speeds up to 45 km/h in Class 3 mode. It’s recognized as one of the best fast, long-range electric bikes in Canada, good for many uses and reliable for both city and rough terrain riding.
ENVO D35: Equipped with a 500W motor and 60Nm torque, this bike is street-legal with regulated speed, torque and power across Canada. ENVO’s motors are 50% lighter than comparable powered geared hub motors in Canada, yet deliver 50% more torque and 25% more battery efficiency.
Decathlon Canada
Decathlon’s Canadian operations offer several high-performance e-bikes that max out the legal speed limit:
Decathlon Rockrider E-ST900: This model features a rare BROSE T mid-drive motor at this price point, offering up to 70Nm of torque. Paired with a 500Wh battery, Decathlon estimates it will provide up to three hours of ‘sporty’ riding.
While many of Decathlon’s e-bikes focus on value and practicality, their higher-end models like the E-Feel series are powered by Shimano EP801 motors offering 85 Nm of torque and 600 W of maximum assistance, easily reaching the Canadian speed limit.
Rize Bikes
Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Rize Bikes designs and delivers high-quality electric bikes specifically for Canada’s varying terrains and climates. Their fastest models include:
Rize RX: This powerhouse is equipped with the most powerful motor setup for an e-bike mid-drive system—a 52V setup and a 1000W Bafang motor delivering 160Nm of torque. Built for power and made for adventure, with a 1000W motor, the RX Pro is perfect for off-road thrills, though it goes beyond street-legal limits.
Rize MD: Features a 500W motor with 120Nm of torque that delivers dynamic, powerful performance and climbs steep hills effortlessly. The bike can extend adventures with dual battery options, reaching up to 140 km range.
Rocky Mountain
Based in North Vancouver, BC, Rocky Mountain Bicycles has been crafting premium performance mountain bikes since 1981, and their e-bike division continues this tradition of excellence.
Rocky Mountain Instinct Powerplay: The new Instinct Powerplay SL is equipped with Rocky Mountain’s proprietary Dyname S4 Lite motor and 480 Wh battery. Rocky Mountain refused to be held hostage by existing drive designs, building their Dyname drive to fit the bike rather than the other way around.
Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay: Designed alongside the Dyname 4.0 drive system, the Altitude Powerplay has everything needed for aggressive enduro e-biking. The Powerplay with Dyname 4.0 drive system is powerful, delivers high torque, and offers faster climbs and punchier acceleration.
The Innovation Behind the Speed Limit
What makes Canadian e-bikes special isn’t their ability to exceed speed limits—it’s how manufacturers have innovated within them. Canadian companies have focused on:
- Advanced motor efficiency: Companies like ENVO have developed motors that are 50% lighter than competitors while delivering 50% more torque and 25% better battery efficiency
- Intelligent power management: Many Canadian e-bikes feature sophisticated controllers that optimize power delivery to reach 32 km/h as efficiently as possible
- Multi-class capability: Several models allow switching between Class 1, 2, and 3 modes, giving riders flexibility for different riding scenarios
- Dual battery systems: Companies like Rize offer optional secondary batteries that can double range without affecting speed compliance
Canada’s 32 km/h speed limit hasn’t stifled innovation—it’s channeled it. Canadian e-bike manufacturers have responded by creating some of the world’s most sophisticated, efficient, and feature-rich electric bicycles. From ENVO’s lightweight, high-torque motors to Rocky Mountain’s custom-built Dyname drive systems, these bikes prove that true performance isn’t just about top speed—it’s about delivering the best possible riding experience within legal and practical constraints.
Whether you choose a versatile commuter like the ENVO D35, a powerful adventure machine like the Rize RX, or a trail-ready beast like the Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay, Canadian-made e-bikes offer world-class performance that maximizes every bit of that 32 km/h limit while delivering exceptional range, comfort, and reliability.