10 Ways To Remove the Speed Limiter on Your Electric Bike

Many electric bicycles come equipped with a speed limiter that restricts the maximum speed, often set by manufacturers to meet local regulations. This guide will walk you through the process of removing the speed limiter on your e-bike, as well as explore its implications.

Speed Limiter in Electric Bikes

Electric bikes are made with a governor system that restricts the top speed to comply with legal limits, typically ranging from 20 mph to 28 mph in many regions. These limits ensure that the bike can be ridden legally on roads and paths. However, some riders might prefer to increase the speed for performance reasons or to enhance their riding experience.

Legal Considerations Before Removing the Speed Limiter

First, be aware that removing the speed limiter can have legal consequences, depending on where you live. In some areas, doing so may turn your electric bike into a motorized vehicle, requiring a driver's license, registration, and other legal considerations. 

SEE ALSO The Top Speeds You Can Hit on an Electric Bike

How to Remove the Speed Limiter on Your Electric Bike

There are several methods to remove the speed limiter on an electric bicycle, and the process can vary depending on the make and model of the bike. Below are the most common methods:

1. Adjust the Settings in the Controller

Most modern electric bikes have an electronic controller that governs the motor’s performance, including speed limits. Some bikes allow you to reprogram the controller to remove or increase the speed limiter.

• Step 1: Find the controller on your e-bike. It is usually located near the motor or under the bike’s seat.

• Step 2: Look for a small display screen or a series of buttons on the controller.

• Step 3: Using the display, navigate to the settings menu and locate the option for speed limits or motor power.

• Step 4: Adjust the maximum speed setting or disable the speed limiter entirely. Be cautious not to change any other settings that could affect the bike’s safety or performance.

• Step 5: Save your settings and test the bike at a low speed to ensure everything works properly.

2. Use an E-Bike Speed Limiter Removal Device

Another option is to purchase a dedicated speed limiter removal device. These devices can be easily installed between the bike’s controller and battery to override the speed limit settings.

• Step 1: Purchase a compatible speed limiter removal device. Make sure it matches the model of your e-bike.

• Step 2: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, usually requiring you to disconnect the battery and connect the device between the battery and controller.

• Step 3: Once installed, the device will enable the motor to perform at its maximum potential, bypassing any speed limits that were previously set.

3. Modify the Motor’s Wiring

For those with advanced mechanical skills, it's possible to physically modify the wiring in the motor to increase the top speed. This method is generally not recommended for beginners but can be effective if done correctly.

• Step 1: Disconnect the battery from the bike and remove the motor cover.

• Step 2: Locate the speed limiter wire. This wire is usually connected to the motor’s controller.

• Step 3: Carefully cut or disconnect the speed limiter wire. Be sure to avoid damaging any other wiring in the process.

• Step 4: Reassemble the motor and reconnect the battery. Test the bike to ensure that the speed limiter has been removed.

4. Update Firmware or Software (for Digital Controllers)

If your e-bike features a digital controller with updatable firmware, you may be able to bypass the speed limiter by installing custom firmware or software that eliminates speed restrictions. This is often used by tech-savvy riders.

• Step 1: Visit the manufacturer’s website or forums to check for any custom firmware or updates that can remove the speed limiter.

• Step 2: Download the necessary files and follow the instructions to update your e-bike’s firmware using a USB cable or wireless connection.

• Step 3: Once the firmware is updated, your e-bike should no longer be restricted by the speed limiter.

5. Adjust the Battery Settings

In some electric bikes, the battery itself can affect the speed limiter. Certain batteries have built-in restrictions that control the current output and, therefore, the speed. If your bike uses such a system, you may be able to adjust the battery settings to increase the speed:

• Step 1: Power off the e-bike and disconnect the battery.

• Step 2: Locate the Battery Management System (BMS) settings. Some batteries allow you to adjust output settings through a menu or interface.

• Step 3: By increasing the voltage or output settings, you can boost the power, which may also raise the bike’s speed limit.

6. Use a Third Party Speed Limiter Removal Device

Another option is to use a third-party speed limiter removal device. These devices are designed to connect between the bike's controller and battery, bypassing the speed restrictions set by the manufacturer. They are easy to install and often highly effective.

• Step 1: Purchase a speed limiter removal device that is compatible with your e-bike model.

• Step 2: Follow the installation instructions to connect the device between the battery and controller.

• Step 3: Adjust the settings on the device to bypass the speed limit, giving your e-bike full performance.

7. Replace with a More Powerful Controller

If you want a significant performance boost, you could replace your electric bike’s existing controller with a more powerful one. The stock controller is often programmed to restrict the bike’s top speed to comply with local regulations, but a more powerful controller can increase speed capabilities.

• Step 1: Find a high-performance controller that is compatible with your e-bike model.

• Step 2: Remove the stock controller and install the new one according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Step 3: Once installed, adjust the controller settings to remove the speed limitation.

8. Adjust the Pedal Assist System

Many e-bikes use a Pedal Assist System (PAS) that can impose a speed limit based on your pedaling effort. By adjusting or disabling this system, you can remove the speed cap and allow the bike to run on full electric power.

• Step 1: Access the bike’s controller menu and find the Pedal Assist System settings.

• Step 2: Adjust the PAS levels to the highest setting, or completely disable the feature.

• Step 3: This will allow you to ride using only the electric motor, bypassing any speed limitations set by the PAS.

9. Modify the Firmware (For Custom E-Bikes)

For highly customized electric bikes, some owners choose to modify the firmware to remove the speed limiter. This is often done by tech-savvy riders who are comfortable with coding or using specialized software to adjust settings on their e-bike’s controller.

• Step 1: Use a programming tool or connect your e-bike’s controller to a computer to access the firmware editing mode.

• Step 2: Locate the speed limit settings within the firmware and adjust or disable them.

• Step 3: Upload the modified firmware back to the controller, allowing your bike to reach higher speeds without the limiter.

10. Use an E-Bike Adjustment App

Some modern e-bikes come with smartphone apps that allow you to control and adjust various settings on the bike, including the speed limiter. If your bike is compatible with such an app, you can easily tweak the settings directly from your phone.

• Step 1: Download the manufacturer’s app for your e-bike and install it on your smartphone.

• Step 2: Pair the app with your e-bike and navigate to the settings menu.

• Step 3: Find the speed or power settings and adjust them to remove or increase the speed limit.

Important Safety Considerations

While removing the speed limiter may be tempting, riding your electric bike at higher speeds can present significant safety risks. The components of your bike, such as the brakes, tires, and frame, may not be designed to handle speeds beyond the manufacturer’s specifications. Riders should ensure that their bike is capable of safely operating at the higher speed before making any modifications.

Test the Bike After Modification

Once the speed limiter has been removed, it's essential to test your bike in a controlled environment. Start by riding at a slow speed to ensure that everything functions properly. Pay special attention to the motor response, brake performance, and overall bike stability. If you notice any unusual behavior, it may be necessary to adjust the settings or reinstall the limiter for safety reasons.

FAQs

Is it legal to remove the speed limiter on an electric bike?

It depends on your location. Some areas have strict laws that require speed limits for electric bicycles, while others may allow higher speeds. Always check your local regulations before making modifications.

Will removing the speed limiter damage my bike?

If not done correctly, removing the speed limiter could potentially damage components such as the motor, controller, or battery. It’s important to ensure that your e-bike is capable of handling higher speeds safely.

How fast can my e-bike go after removing the speed limiter?

The maximum speed of your electric bike after removal depends on the motor and other components. Some e-bikes can reach speeds of up to 35 mph or more with the limiter removed.