EU Legal Situation and Requirements for self made Pedelecs!

Here is a structured overview of the recommended steps for private owners of bicycle conversions with Bafang BBS as non-registered pedelec.

Understanding the Legal Situation and Requirements:

The Road Traffic Act (StVG) § 1 Approval regulates the provisions for pedelecs (maximum 250 W nominal continuous power, assistance only up to 25 km/h, and exclusively pedal assistance).

Familiarize yourself with the other relevant regulations of the Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO), the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO), and the EU directives that govern the private
retrofit of a bicycle with electric pedal assistance (Pedelec 25).
Additional important information is provided at the end of this article.

Installation of a Suitable Module:

Use the unique intelligent module from GutRad, which reliably limits the motor power of the Bafang BBS DIY motor group to comply with the prescribed guidelines and certifies these values.

Ensure that the module is properly integrated into the overall system and that the existing parameter settings (wheel diameter, parameters, wiring, etc.) are in compliance with regulations.

Technical Inspection and Measurements:

Conduct tests under real conditions to ensure that the power parameters are actually being met.

Measure power and speed to obtain objective, physical evidence, e.g., via the display, a shunt, or a GPS app.

Documentation:

Create a detailed documentation of the entire conversion process (Machinery Directive).

Collect all relevant documents for the components used, such as purchase receipts and any available installation instructions. These documents can be helpful in case of an official inspection.

Consider Safety Aspects:

Although no formal system certification is required for personal use, an independent expert inspection (e.g., by a recognized testing service provider) can verify the overall system's safety.

Ensure that other safety-relevant components, such as the frame and brakes, are not compromised by the conversion.

Maintain Private Use:

Use the converted bicycle exclusively for personal use.

Keep in mind that commercial distribution or professional use requires additional testing and approval requirements.

Ongoing Monitoring:

Regularly check whether all systems function as intended and that performance parameters remain consistent.

Stay informed about any changes in legal regulations.

These steps will help you carry out the conversion in compliance with the legal framework for registration exemption—based on adherence to and verifiable measurement of the specified physical performance parameters.

We are, of course, happy to assist our customers with advice and support and look forward to every well-executed and safe conversion!