In short: in Italy an e-bike counts as a bicycle only if its motor is rated up to 250 W, the assistance cuts out at 25 km/h and the motor helps only while you pedal. If it meets these three rules you need no number plate, insurance or licence, and you can ride on cycle paths.
The three rules
Article 50 of the Italian Highway Code treats pedal-assist bikes as bicycles («velocipedi») when they meet all of these conditions:
- Motor up to 250 W of continuous rated power. For bikes used to carry goods the limit rises to 500 W.
- Assistance that fades out and stops at 25 km/h. You can go faster, but only on your own legs.
- The motor only helps while you pedal. A walk-assist button up to 6 km/h is allowed, handy for pushing the bike or starting on a hill.
Note the word «rated»: many 250 W motors peak at 500–600 W on climbs. That is normal and legal. What matters is the rated power shown on the motor label.
What about a throttle?
A bike with a throttle that moves it on its own above 6 km/h is not a bicycle: legally it is a moped. It needs type approval, a number plate, insurance, a helmet and an AM licence. Many 750–1000 W fat bikes sold online fall into this group: if you ride one on the road as a bicycle you risk fines, impoundment and confiscation.
The same goes for e-bikes «unlocked» with kits or apps that raise the 25 km/h limit: legally they become unapproved mopeds. And if you have an accident, the insurer may refuse to pay.
Quick comparison
| Road-legal e-bike | With throttle or over 250 W | |
|---|---|---|
| Legally it is | A bicycle | A moped |
| Number plate | No | Yes |
| Insurance | No | Yes |
| Licence | No | AM |
| Helmet | Recommended | Required |
| Cycle paths | Yes | No |
| Minimum age | None | 14 |
Where you can ride
A road-legal e-bike follows the same rules as a regular bike: urban and rural roads, cycle paths and lanes, and limited-traffic zones where bikes are allowed. You cannot ride on motorways or on main roads signposted as closed to bicycles.
Lights, reflectors and hi-vis vest
- At night and in tunnels you need a white front light and a red rear light switched on, plus reflectors on pedals and wheels. Most e-bikes power their lights from the main battery.
- Outside built-up areas, from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise and in tunnels, riders must wear a reflective vest or braces.
Carrying children
An adult may carry one child up to 8 years old in an approved child seat firmly fixed to the bike. For two children, or older ones, you need a cargo bike or longtail built for carrying people.
Helmet and optional insurance
A helmet is not currently required on road-legal e-bikes, but it is strongly recommended: you ride faster than on a regular bike and the extra weight lengthens braking. Liability and theft insurance are not required. For a bike over €1,000 they are worth considering, and liability cover is often already included in your home insurance.
How to spot a road-legal e-bike
- Look for the CE mark and compliance with the European standard EN 15194.
- Check the label on the frame or motor: it should say 250 W and 25 km/h.
- Be wary of listings with power «up to 1000 W», twist-grip throttles or the word «unlockable».
- Ask for the declaration of conformity: a reliable seller provides it without fuss.
Our e-bikes
At e-bikestore you will find only road-legal e-bikes: 250 W, 25 km/h, pedal assist. Every product page shows the certification and what you can and cannot do with the bike. If you have a doubt about a model, write to us before you buy.
This guide is for information only and does not replace the law (articles 50, 68 and 182 of the Italian Highway Code). The legislation in force prevails.
