New National Standard for Chinese Motorcycles: Automatic Shut-Off at 25 km/h Implemented Today

technology, and safety features. Learn how these changes will affect riders and manufacturers.">

September 1,2025

China Tightens Regulations on Electric Bicycles: What Riders Need to Know

Beijing – Beginning September 1,2025,China will enforce a revised national standard for electric bicycles,officially known as “electric Bicycle Safety Technical Specifications” (GB 17761-2024). These new regulations introduce significant changes to vehicle specifications, with a focus on enhancing safety and managing traffic flow.

Speed Restrictions Take Center Stage

the most prominent update centers on speed limitations. The maximum permissible designed speed for all electric bicycles will be capped at 25 kilometers per hour. A built-in mechanism will automatically cut power to the motor if this speed is exceeded, curtailing unauthorized modifications for increased velocity and mitigating potential traffic accidents. Manufacturers are also facing stricter requirements to prevent tampering with speed-limiting controllers.

Enhanced Battery Performance and Safety

The updated standards address battery technology, increasing the allowable weight for lead-acid battery models from 55 kg to 63 kg. This adjustment aims to extend battery life and range. Alongside this, a higher emphasis is placed on braking systems, requiring improved performance to reduce stopping distances, especially in wet conditions. To minimize fire risks, a key component of the new standards restricts plastic materials to no more than 5.5% of the vehicle’s total weight, reducing flammability and toxic gas emissions in case of a fire.

Mandatory Beidou Positioning System Integration

A significant change is the inclusion of the Beidou positioning system as a standard feature. All electric bicycles intended for commercial use – including those utilized for urban logistics and rental services – are now required to integrate Beidou modules. While private owners are not mandated to install these systems, they can opt to do so and even disable the function if implemented. The Beidou system provides real-time location, speed, and time data, offering enhanced tracking and management capabilities.

Implementation Timeline and Transition Period

All electric bicycles manufactured after September 1, 2025, must adhere to the new national standards. A three-month transition period will allow retailers to sell existing stock manufactured under the previous standard until November 30, 2025. After December 1, 2025, only compliant models will be legally sold. Importantly,consumers who have already purchased non-compliant vehicles will not be required to replace them,but local governments may introduce incentive programs to encourage upgrades.

Feature	Old Standard	New Standard (GB 17761-2024)
Maximum Speed	Unrestricted	25 km/h (with automatic power cut-off)
Lead-Acid Battery Max Weight	55 kg	63 kg
Plastic component Ratio	Unspecified	≤ 5.5% of total vehicle weight
Positioning System	Optional	Mandatory for commercial use

Did You Know? The Beidou navigation Satellite System is China’s global navigation system, comparable to the United States’ GPS. Its integration into electric bicycles reflects a broader push for smart city initiatives and data-driven transportation management.

Pro Tip: Before purchasing a new electric bicycle, always verify that it complies with the latest GB 17761-2024 standard to avoid potential issues with legality and safety.

These updated regulations signal a commitment to safety and order within the rapidly growing electric bicycle market in China. With millions of these vehicles on the roads, these changes are poised to have a substantial impact on both riders and the urban landscape.

What impact do you think these new regulations will have on the popularity of electric bicycles in China? Will the stricter standards improve safety enough to offset any potential decline in sales?

The rise of Electric Bicycles in China

Electric bicycles have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation in China, driven by factors such as rising fuel costs, traffic congestion, and growing environmental awareness. According to the China Bicycle Association, annual sales of electric bicycles exceeded 38 million units in 2023, representing a significant portion of the overall bicycle market. This widespread adoption has necessitated stricter regulations to ensure public safety and maintain order in urban environments.

Frequently Asked Questions About China’s Electric Bicycle Regulations

• What is the primary goal of the new electric bicycle standards? The main goal is to improve safety by limiting speed, enhancing braking performance, and reducing fire risks.
• Will the new standards impact the price of electric bicycles? It is indeed likely that the new standards will initially increase the cost of electric bicycles due to the added technology and manufacturing requirements.
• What happens if I already own an electric bicycle that doesn’t meet the new standards? You are not required to replace your existing vehicle; however, local governments may offer incentives for upgrades.
• What is the Beidou positioning system and how does it work? The Beidou system is a Chinese navigation system that provides location, speed, and time data through satellite technology.
• Where can I find more information about the GB 17761-2024 standard? While an official English translation is not readily available, resources can be found through industry associations and trade publications.
• Are there any exceptions to the new speed limit? No, the 25 km/h speed limit applies to all electric bicycles, irrespective of their intended use.
• Why is the proportion of plastic materials restricted in the new standard? This restriction is to reduce the risk of fire and limit the release of toxic gases in the event of a fire.

Share this article with your network and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

What are the potential legal consequences of removing the speed governor from a Chinese motorcycle?

Understanding the New Regulation for Chinese Imports

As of today, September 1st, 2025, a new national standard is in effect for all imported Chinese motorcycles. This standard mandates an automatic engine shut-off feature, limiting the maximum speed to 25 kilometers per hour (approximately 15.5 mph). This regulation impacts a wide range of vehicles,including Chinese dirt bikes,mini motos,and smaller displacement imported motorcycles. The primary driver behind this change is increased safety and a response to growing concerns regarding unregulated speeds on public and private land.

What Does This Mean for Owners of Existing Chinese Motorcycles?

The new standard applies to all Chinese motorcycles entering the contry from today forward. However, the impact on existing owners is more nuanced.

Legality of Pre-Existing Bikes: Currently,the regulation doesn’t mandate retrofitting existing,legally registered motorcycles. Though,future inspections or modifications may require compliance.

Resale Value: Expect a potential decrease in resale value for unmodified chinese motorcycles, particularly those marketed for higher speeds. The demand for bikes without the speed limiter will likely increase, but legality remains a key concern.

Modification Concerns: Attempts to bypass or remove the speed governor could led to legal repercussions and void any existing warranties. As noted in online forums like PlanetMinis, removing the restrictor is a common topic, but carries risks.

How the Speed Governor Works: Common Implementations

Manufacturers are employing various methods to implement the 25 km/h speed limiter.Here are the most common approaches:

Fuel Line Restrictor: As reported by owners of Coolster 110cc bikes, a restrictor within the fuel line connected to the carburetor is a frequent method. This limits fuel flow at higher throttle positions.

CDI Unit Limitation: The Capacitor Discharge Ignition (CDI) unit is often programmed with a speed limit. This is a more sophisticated method and harder to bypass.

Throttle Cable Adjustment: Some manufacturers are using a throttle cable adjustment to physically limit how far the throttle can open.

Electronic Control unit (ECU) Programming: More advanced models with ECUs have the speed limit programmed directly into the ECU software.

Impact on Different Motorcycle Types

The regulation affects various types of chinese motorcycles differently:

Pit Bikes & Mini Motos: These are arguably the most impacted, as their primary appeal often lies in their speed and agility. The 25 km/h limit substantially alters their intended use.

Dirt Bikes (50cc – 125cc): While limiting, the impact on smaller displacement dirt bikes is less severe, as they are often used for recreational riding and training.

Street Legal Motorcycles: Chinese-made street legal motorcycles are also subject to the regulation, impacting their usability for commuting and longer rides.

Electric Motorcycles: The standard also applies to electric Chinese motorcycles, with the speed limiter implemented thru software control of the motor.

Legal Implications and Compliance

Import Regulations: All new shipments of Chinese motorcycles must now demonstrate compliance with the 25 km/h speed limit before being allowed entry into the country.

Certification Requirements: Manufacturers are required to obtain certification demonstrating the effectiveness of their speed limiting systems.

Enforcement: enforcement of the regulation will likely fall to local law enforcement and vehicle inspection agencies.

Potential Penalties: Riding an uncompliant motorcycle could result in fines, impoundment, or other legal penalties.

Benefits of the New Standard

While controversial among enthusiasts,the new standard offers several potential benefits:

Reduced Accidents: Lower speeds can significantly reduce the severity of accidents,particularly for inexperienced riders.

Increased Safety for Pedestrians: Limiting motorcycle speeds in populated areas enhances pedestrian safety.

Lower Insurance Costs: Insurance companies may offer lower premiums for compliant motorcycles due to the reduced risk.

Greater Public Acceptance: The regulation could lead to greater public acceptance of motorcycles as a mode of transportation.

practical Tips for Owners

Verify Compliance: If purchasing a new Chinese motorcycle,confirm it meets the new standard and has the required certification.

Understand Your Bike: familiarize yourself with the location and type of speed governor installed on your motorcycle.

Avoid Illegal Modifications: Resist the temptation to bypass or remove the speed limiter, as this could have legal consequences.

Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date on any changes or clarifications to the regulation from official sources.

Consider Alternative Uses: Explore alternative uses for your motorcycle, such as off-road riding on private property (where permitted).

Resources for Further Information

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): https://www.nhtsa.gov/

Local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Check your state’s DMV website for specific