Transfer of the speed pedelec from the category bicycles to the category mopeds

Per 1 January 2017, the speed pedelec is no longer legally a light moped (which falls within the category bicycles), but is placed into the category mopeds.

Research question

1. To what extent does the adaptation of the law change the behaviour, and consequently the safety, of speed pedelec riders and that of other road users?

Background

Until 1 January 2017, the speed pedelec, electric bicycle with pedal assistance to 45 km/h, was classified as light mopeds and therefore fell in the category bicycles. As from 1 January 2017, the speed pedelec is placed in the category mopeds, and their riders are consequently subject to mandatory helmet use and use of the combined bicycle/moped path or the roadway. The speed pedelec rider is no longer allowed to use the bicycle path. It is uncertain how speed pedelec riders and other road users will react to this change.