In Austria, specific regulations apply to both conventional bicycles and e-bikes to ensure road safety. Here is a breakdown of the requirements:
Compliance requirements for conventional bicycles:
Braking system:
Bicycles must be equipped with two independent and effective braking systems capable of bringing the bicycle to an immediate stop.
Lights and reflectors: When riding at night or in poor visibility conditions, bicycles must have the following:
A white or yellow front light (steady or flashing).
A red rear light (steady or flashing).
A red rear reflector.
Reflectors on the pedals or on the wheel spokes.
Acoustic warning device: Bicycles must be equipped with a working bell or another acoustic warning device.
General condition: The bicycle must be in a safe and roadworthy condition.
Compliance requirements for e-bikes/pedelecs:
Primary drive: The e-bike must be designed so that propulsion is primarily provided by the rider; motor assistance is only available while pedalling. A throttle bike can be used as within the same legal regulations until September 31st 2026).
Maximum power: The maximum continuous rated power of the motor must not exceed 250 watts.
Speed limit:
The power output must progressively decrease as speed increases.
The motor assistance must cut off when the e-bike reaches a speed of 25 km/h.
The motor assistance must also cut off when the rider stops pedalling (valid from Oct 1st 2026).
Classification: E-bikes (with the restrictions mentioned above) are treated in Austria in the same way as conventional bicycles.
Lights and acoustic warning device: The same rules as for conventional bicycles apply to e-bikes.
Please note that e-bikes sold in Austria must comply with the relevant EU standards, including those bearing the CE marking. For more information and rules on e-bikes and bicycles, click here.
Important change for e-mopeds from 1 October 2026:
From October 1st, 2026, things are changing in Austria for e-mopeds. All vehicles with a throttle will no longer be classified as bicycles from this date – they will instead be classified as motor vehicles (class L1e-B). This means that anyone wishing to continue using such a vehicle will need a vehicle registration, a licence plate, insurance, a driving licence, and a helmet. Without these requirements, the vehicle may no longer be operated on public roads. In addition, e-mopeds will no longer be permitted to ride on cycle paths or go against one-way streets – they belong exclusively on the road. Find out more here.
