China's New E-Bike Rules in Force, Official Dispels Rumors

The transition period for China's updated electric bicycle standards ended on December 1, with compliant models now reaching stores nationwide. Amid widespread online speculation and misinformation, a senior standards official has publicly clarified key details.

He Penglin, deputy director of the Safety Technology Research Center at the China Electronics Standardization Institute, addressed several common social media rumors concerning safety, design, and market availability, People's Daily reported today.

Rumor No.1: The 25 km/h speed cut-off triggers emergency braking, jeopardizing safety.

He clarified that although the motor must cut power when the bike exceeds 25 km/h, this does not cause sudden braking.

"On level ground, the motor's design prevents the e-bike from exceeding 25 km/h under its power alone," he explained. "Even on a downhill slope where speed may increase, the motor ceases to provide assist. The bicycle continues coasting, and the rider maintains control using the brakes."

Rumor No.2: The new standard bans carrying children.

He stated that the national technical standard does not regulate passenger rules. Regulations concerning carrying children are determined by local legislation. Many provinces permit carrying one child if a certified safety seat is installed on the rear rack.

Rumor No.3: The standards mandate metal saddles.

He refuted this claim, stating the standard only requires seat materials to meet flame-retardancy specifications for safety. Most certified models on the market use compliant foam padding.

Addressing isolated online images of metal-saddle models, he called them "rare cases that do not align with mainstream consumer needs."

Rumor No.4: Rearview mirrors are prohibited.

"The standards actually encourage the installation of rearview mirrors," He said, adding that mirrors are excluded from official vehicle width and height measurements.

Rumor No.5: The new standard has caused widespread closures of e-bike retail stores.

He reported a smooth production shift since the standard took effect on September 1.

"More than 600 certified models from over 30 brands are now in production," he said. "Supply is increasing, and most stores are operating normally with available stock."

Any limited, temporary closures were attributed to business adjustments and would not affect overall supply, he stressed.