Riding Guide ·
Exporting E-Bikes to the US & EU: Power Rules, Compliance & Sendu FAQ (2026)
EU pedelec vs US e-bike classes, battery UN38.3, CE/FCC basics, and which Sendu models fit export buyers in 2026.
Quick answer: EU road e-bikes usually follow EPAC / pedelec limits: ~250W continuous power and assist cut-off at 25km/h, plus CE and related standards. The US uses Class 1 / 2 / 3 (pedal assist and/or throttle with speed caps). Lithium batteries need UN38.3 for shipping. Sendu off-road e-MTBs are rated up to 35–46km/h — confirm road legality in your state/country before export. Bulk buyers: contact Sendu; range-focused → SD-Adventure, torque → SD-XR 900.
European Union: pedelec limits
Most EU countries treat compliant EPAC as bicycles: assist only while pedaling, ≤250W rated continuous power, no assist above 25km/h. Higher performance may become L1e mopeds (license, insurance, type approval). Sendu trail models are off-road oriented — road-legal configs must be specified per market.
United States: Class 1 / 2 / 3
| Class | Assist | Top speed (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Pedal assist only | 20 mph | Widely allowed on many paths/roads |
| Class 2 | Pedal + throttle | 20 mph | Check state throttle rules |
| Class 3 | Pedal assist only | 28 mph | Helmet/age limits in some states |
State and local trail/road rules still vary — see our registration guide.
Compliance & logistics
- Batteries: UN38.3 test summary for air/sea freight; MSDS and labeling.
- EU CE: Machinery, EMC, RoHS; EPAC often references EN 15194 (verify latest list).
- US FCC: Required if Bluetooth/GPS modules present; UL 2849 often requested by retailers.
- Labeling: Voltage, wattage, max speed, warnings in local languages.
Sendu models — export selection
| Model | Rated top speed | Range | Export note |
|---|---|---|---|
| SD-Adventure | 40km/h | ~165km | Long range; road use may need limiter |
| SD-XR 900 | 45km/h | ~150km | High torque; Class 3 needs state check |
| SD-Urban X | 35km/h | ~110km | EU road → 250W/25km/h variant |
| SD-Trail 700 | 38km/h | ~120km | Light trail |
| SD-Enduro 850 | 42km/h | ~135km | Enduro |
| SD-Pro Carbon | 46km/h | ~140km | Performance / venue use |
Also: 2026 buying guide, fat-tire guide.
B2B export workflow
- Define market: EU pedelec vs US class vs off-road only.
- Spec sheet: motor W, battery Wh, charger, max speed, throttle yes/no.
- Cert checklist: CE/EN15194, UN38.3, FCC if wireless, HS code & duty.
- Sample & QC: Sendu 120+ factory checks; third-party inspection optional.
- Warranty in contract — request via contact form.
FAQ
- Does Sendu ship to the US or EU?
- Yes for B2B and inquiries. Single-unit shipping depends on carrier battery rules and duties — contact us first.
- EU 250W vs 750W — what changes?
- 250W pedelec firmware/hardware limits assist speed and pedaling logic; 750W off-road units may not be road-legal in the EU without extra approval.
- Is Class 3 legal on US roads?
- Often yes on roads with state-specific helmet/age rules; trail access varies. Off-road use on private land differs from public roads — registration guide.
- What documents for air shipping batteries?
- Typically UN38.3, MSDS, carrier appraisal — confirm with your freight forwarder. Sendu bulk orders include battery spec packs.
- How do I get a formal quote?
- Use the website form with country, quantity, model and road-legal requirements; reply within 1–2 business days.