Speed is a glorious pursuit, and no less so in free markets where restrictive e-bike laws are not part of the equation. The high-performance electric bike of your dreams: Cruise past traffic at 28 mph on a Class 3, zip up hills with the 500-watt motor, and revel in the ease of freeing yourself from the traditional limits of an automobile. That’s why we created this guide to help you CHOOSE the best one for your needs & learn how to UNLEASH every ounce of power! Here is our powerful resource for comparing the 28 mph Electric Bikes Available (2025 speed unlock) on the market today. We'll take a closer look and explore built-for-speed models, the ways you can access them, and some key factors to be aware of to get a safe & powerful ride.
If you need a no-compromises machine right from the beginning, then the ENGWE L20 3.0 Boost is your top choice. This model is designed as more than just an e-bike; it’s a fully integrated urban mobility solution. It sets a new standard by being one of the only compact e-bikes to bring both an aggressive design and a high-performance full-suspension package at such an incredible price point. With a quick boost of 75Nm of torque from its bespoke Boost Mode, when power is required for hills or sudden accelerations, the BionX P motor makes all climbs feel like downhill and sprints a breeze. Say goodbye to range anxiety with a battery that lasts up to 135 km. It's combined with the industry's leading 8A fast charger to charge fully in about 2 hours. A high-end torque sensor allows for a natural and intuitive ride, while its compact folding design means it can accompany you on any journey—from your daily commute to weekend rides! The L20 3.0 Boost is just what a modern e-bike should be: powerful, comfortable, versatile, and super easy to use.
Understanding High-Speed E-bike Potential
Before we turn to individual models, first look at some of the things that now make high-speed electric bicycles possible. Most e-bikes from the factory are speed-limited by electronics to be legal in most jurisdictions. But the hardware itself, such as the motor and controller, is usually much more potent.
Motor Power:
You will need a powerful motor, usually 500W and above. The powerful 250W EU standard motor is used in the ENGWE L20 3.0 Boost with good torque, but in unrestricted markets, many speed pedelecs are based on motors that provide more power.
Controller:
The e-bike’s controller is the brain of the system. It determines how much power goes to the motor. A programmable or unlockable controller is essential for running at higher speeds.
Voltage and Speed:
A higher voltage (e.g., a 48V or 52V system) can generally deliver power more efficiently, which helps the motor reach and hold higher RPMs, resulting in faster speed.
Which 20+ mph Speed Demon is best for me?
Finding the best high-speed e-bike involves more than just finding a bike with the highest top speed. The machine should be well-engineered, safe to use, and efficient.
Brakes:
Speed is nothing without control. If riding an e-bike 28+ mph, hydraulic disc brakes are a must. They have much better stopping power and modulation than mechanically actuated brakes, and that’s important for safety. You are going to want big rotors (180mm or larger) for better heat dissipation.
Frame and Suspension:
Like any off-road vehicle, the bike has to be strong to endure rough conditions at high speeds. Full suspension, which in a few short years was the province of the lucky few, is quickly becoming the norm for top-tier comfort and control—absorbing bumps and keeping tire rubber on dirt.
Tires:
They should be wide, puncture-resistant, with a tread pattern that works well on your most ridden surface. A set of high-quality tires offers the grip to give you confidence to lean a bike into corners and brake hard.
Battery Capacity:
Speedy rides will always drain the battery very fast. The bigger the battery (expressed in watt-hours, or Wh), the greater your range and the longer you can enjoy your speed before worrying about where to plug in.
Top High Speed Electric Bikes for Competition by 2025
In addition to our top pick, there are other great options the market has for speed demons. These are the models that are known for their strong performance and potential.
1. Velocity-X Interceptor:
The ultimate weapon for raw speed and long-range assault, this bike features a 1000W hub motor and a massive battery. Its aggressive profile and secure construction have endeared it to many urban explorers.
2. Aventon Level.2:
A well-balanced commuter that arrives factory-set as Class 2, but is universally recognized in the community for its unlockable controller. It’s got a torque sensor so the ride feels natural, but it also has well-tuned components designed for those times when you want to kick in some speed.
3. Ride1Up LMT'D:
The LMT'D has a large hub motor and is designed stealthily, offering great torque and acceleration. It’s one for the style-conscious, and for would-be riders who love letting their hair down, too – carrying good performance doesn’t mean you can’t have looks to match once unlocked.
4. Juiced Bikes RipCurrent S:
A legend in the fast e-bike world. This fat-tire e-bike boasts a 52V battery and a full front suspension design that can’t be stopped even on the toughest terrains!
Accessing Your E-bike’s Entire Speed: The Software Method
For many of today’s electric bikes, tapping into their full potential doesn’t take any tools at all. The speed limit is usually just a straightforward software setting that can be easily adjusted with a secret menu or, in some cases, a smartphone app. There are many how-to videos on YouTube with the above techniques for different models. Here is a summary of the steps for two popular software unlock techniques.
Method 1: Accessing through the Hidden Menu of Your Display
This is a very common approach, and you might need to press a button combination for this.
- Power On: Power on your e-bike's display in the normal way.
- Unlock Hidden Settings: Try holding some buttons together. This can be the 'Up' and 'Down' arrow buttons, or the 'Mode' and 'Up' buttons at the same time for two seconds.
- Go to Speed Limit: Once inside the settings (or "P-settings") menu, use your buttons to scroll to the "Speed Limit" option (labeled as "Speed Limit", "Top Speed", or identified by a code, e.g., P08).
- Raise the Limit: Select the limit and use the 'Up' arrow key to increase the value to a higher number (e.g., from 20 to 40).
- Confirm and Exit: Press the 'Set' or 'Mode' key to confirm. In some models, the procedure requires a special exit sequence, such as repeatedly hitting the 'Back' key until you return to the main screen. This is an important step to save the setting.
Method 2: Using a Smartphone App to Unlock
Newer e-bikes with Bluetooth capability can often be unlocked via a companion app.
- Download the App: In your phone’s app store, search for and download the manufacturer-supplied app or a compatible third-party app (such as “Orbital Sports” for some brands).
- Connect Your E-bike: Power on your e-bike and enable the Bluetooth feature on your phone. Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to search for and connect to your electric bike.
- Locate Classification Settings: This can usually be found in the device settings on the app and is designated as "Class 2" or "Class 3".
- Switch to Unlocked Mode: Tap this setting and choose “Unlock” or an “Off-Road” mode.
- Accept the Change: The app might show you a warning and a countdown. Read it carefully and confirm the terms to proceed. You’ve now removed the speed limiter on your bike.
A Note on Hardware Modifications
For older e-bikes or bikes with locked-down controllers, hardware modifications might be needed. Note: This is an advanced process. If you do it wrong, you can fry your components and void your warranty. Common hardware modifications include:
- Controller Replacement: Replacing the original controller with a higher-powered and/or programmable aftermarket one.
- Motor Upgrade: Installing a motor with greater power.
- Battery Swap: Replacing the old, worn-out battery with a new one. A common upgrade is increasing voltage (e.g., 48V to 52V), but this is only possible if the controller can handle the increase. *Note: This process is complex and not fully covered here.*
Software or Hardware Unlock: Where the Two Stand?
| Features | Software Unlock | Hardware Unlock |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Often free | Sometimes expensive (new controller, motor, etc.) |
| Installation | Easy to moderate, no tools needed | Hard, requires technical and electrical skills |
| Risk | Low risk of voiding the warranty or causing damage | High risk of component damage and voids warranty |
| Reversibility | Easily reversible in most cases | Non-reversible or hard to reverse |
| Performance | Unleashes the existing hardware's potential | Can achieve a higher performance ceiling |
Feel the freedom of the open road by selecting and unlocking your ideal high-speed electric bike for your 2025 adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it possible and legal to unlock my electric bike to 28 mph e-bike speed?
This depends on local and regional laws. In many locations, an e-bike that exceeds a certain speed (e.g., 20 or 28 mph) is legally considered a moped or motorcycle and may require a license, registration, and insurance. Unlocked speeds are generally intended for use on private property only.
2. Is my e-bike warranty void if I unlock it?
Almost certainly, yes. The manufacturer sets the speed limit for safety, regulatory compliance, and to prevent excessive wear on parts. Adjusting this setting (via software or hardware) will, in most cases, directly violate the warranty agreement.
3. Is the battery drained much more quickly if you go faster?
Yes, absolutely. Wind resistance increases exponentially with speed. Doubling your speed can consume up to four times the energy, which translates to a significantly shorter range.
4. Do I have to change my brakes as well if I unlock it?
If your e-bike doesn't come with hydraulic disc brakes, upgrading them is highly recommended for safety. Being able to stop rapidly and dependably from 28+ mph is just as important as being able to achieve that speed.
5. Can any E-bike be unlocked to go faster?
No. An e-bike’s maximum speed is largely determined by its hardware, specifically the power of its motor and the capability of its controller. A low-cost e-bike with a 250W motor, for example, is unlikely to reach 28 mph even with the speed limiter removed.
