Electric road bikes in the UK, like other e-bikes, are limited to 25km/h assisted speed in the UK. They often deliver less assistance than electric mountain bikes and mid-motored hybrid e-bikes, but this is because the assistance is designed to dovetail with a sportier, more rider-driven ride.  

The lightest electric road bikes can weigh as little as around 11kg, with weights falling as manufacturers compete to produce the lightest e-road bike. Usually, lightest e-bikes feature high-end componentry, including carbon wheels and lightweight groupsets. 

If you want the thrill of a typical road bike, but with the added assistance of a motor to make hills easier (or simply to help get you home!), then an electric road bike is well worth considering. Commuters can also consider them too, especially if they come with the flexibility of adding pannier racks and mudguards. 

The best electric road bike is one that is ideally suited to your needs. Think about weight if you are using it primarily for commuting or consider range if you are hoping to cover lots of distance. 

Yes, electric bikes are legal to ride on the road in the UK, and are governed by the same laws as normal bicycles (as long as they meet UK restrictions on e-bike design). The minimum age to ride an e-bike is 14 years.