Breakdown cover for speed pedelecs

Think of speed pedelcs as the moped reincarnated, minus the petrol but packed with potential to transform longer distance commuting.

A speed pedelec, also known as an S-pedelec, is a type of electric bike designed to assist pedalling up to speeds of 28 mph (45 km/h).

Due to their top speed and motor size, a speed pedelec in the UK must meet specific regulatory requirements: riders need a valid driver’s license, the pedelec must be registered with the DVLA, and it requires insurance and a registration plate.

These high specification electric mopeds might have pedals, but bicycles they are not. If you suffer a mechanical fault, puncture, or even a flat battery on a speed pedelec, pedalling home is not always an option so breakdown cover can prove extremely useful.

Breakdown cover for speed pedelecs

If you need 24/7 breakdown cover for a speed pedelec or electric moped, get an instant quote here.

Pedals to Petrol: How bicycles morphed into mopeds – and back again?

Bicycles are a marvel of engineering that, in the late 19th century, that transformed personal transport. However, it wasn’t long before engineers began experimenting with small engines on bicycle frames, transforming them into lightweight motorised two-wheelers: the moped was born.

The "motor-pedal" arrangement was clever because it provided a way of starting the petrol engine, boosting speed on hills, and even getting home if the motor failed. In post-war Europe, the moped took off as an affordable and practical alternative to cars.

Fast-forward to today, and we're witnessing a new chapter in this evolutionary story. Speed pedelecs bring back the spirit of the moped, but with a modern twist. Smokey two-stroke petrol engines have given way to electric motors but the top speeds of 28 mph remains unchanged.

Across Europe, speed pedelecs are gaining traction as a credible, low-emission alternative to motorcycles and cars – especially for longer commutes.

However, the most practical fusion of bicycle and motor, is the e-bike. Limited to a 250W motor that can assist pedalling up to 15.5mph, e-bikes are considered by UK law to be no different from a conventional bicycle. This means they do not require registration, an MOT or a licence to ride. And although insurance for e-bikes is extremely useful, it is not mandatory as it is for speed pedelecs.

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The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover  and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

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