25 km/h electric scooter: is it enough in the city?

In France, the maximum authorized speed for an electric scooter on public roads is generally limited to 25 km/h. This rule is part of the legal framework for EDPMs (Personal Motorized Mobility Devices).

But one question often comes up among users:

👉 Is 25 km/h enough for urban travel?

The answer depends on your daily use, your urban environment, and your expectations in terms of comfort and safety.

Why is the speed limited to 25 km/h?

The 25 km/h limit was implemented for several reasons:

• user safety
• coexistence with pedestrians and cyclists
• reduction of accidents in urban areas
• harmonization of traffic rules

👉 The objective is not maximum performance, but a balance between mobility and safety.

Is 25 km/h in the city really slow?

In practice, 25 km/h is often sufficient in the city.

Why?

• traffic lights limit average speed
• cycle paths are often busy
• stops are frequent
• urban traffic is irregular

👉 In reality, the average speed of an urban journey is often between 12 and 18 km/h, even if the scooter can go faster.

When does 25 km/h become insufficient?

Even if 25 km/h is suitable for the city, certain situations can make it less comfortable:

🔹 long journeys (> 10–15 km)

You may feel a lack of average speed.

🔹 clear or peri-urban roads

The limitation becomes more noticeable.

🔹 experienced users

Some users look for more power when going uphill.

Speed and comfort: what really matters

Maximum speed is not the only important factor.

In reality, what influences comfort is:

• acceleration
• stability
• suspension
• tire quality
• engine power

👉 A stable scooter at 25 km/h is often more pleasant than a faster, unstable model.

25 km/h vs engine power

It is important to distinguish between:

• maximum speed (limited by law)
• engine power (impacts acceleration and uphill climbing)

👉 A powerful scooter allows for:

• better uphill performance
• better acceleration
• more comfort on uneven terrain

But the speed remains limited to 25 km/h on public roads.

Which scooter to choose for the city?

For daily urban use, prioritize:

• riding comfort
• reliable braking
• suitable range
• suspension if roads are uneven

👉 See the full range:
Urbanowheels Electric Scooters

Recommended Urbanowheels models

🔹 iX3 – daily urban use

iX3 electric scooter
Ideal for commuting in the city.

🔹 iX4 – mixed roads

iX4 urban and trail performance
More comfortable on uneven roads.

🔹 iX5S – long distances

iX5S long-range autonomy
Suitable for longer and more intensive journeys.

25 km/h and safety

Riding at 25 km/h requires good practices:

• anticipate braking
• maintain a safe distance
• use appropriate lighting
• adjust speed in pedestrian areas

👉 Safety depends more on the rider than on the maximum speed.

FAQ

Is 25 km/h enough to get to work?

Yes, for most urban journeys in France.

Can an electric scooter be derestricted?

On public roads, no. Regulations impose 25 km/h.

Is a more powerful scooter useful?

Yes, for uphill climbing and acceleration comfort, but not for top speed.

Conclusion

The 25 km/h limit may seem restrictive, but it is adapted to urban reality.

👉 What matters most is not the maximum speed, but:

• comfort
• stability
• range
• braking quality

To choose the right model, prioritize a scooter adapted to your actual use rather than a theoretical speed.