Why are helmets mandatory for use on speed pedelecs and not on pedelecs?

Answer

In the Netherlands, helmets for pedelec riders are not mandatory, since a pedelec is legally deemed to be a ‘conventional’ bicycle. For speed pedelec riders, however, helmets are mandatory, since a speed pedelec is legally deemed to be a moped (see the question What rules apply to pedelecs and speed pedelecs?).

A speed pedelec helmet can either be an ‘ordinary’ moped helmet which complies with the motor helmet standard ECE-22.05/06 or a helmet which complies with the NTA 8776 standard [5], which was specifically developed for speed pedelecs. This helmet resembles a bicycle helmet, but has a number of different specifications (designed for higher impact speed, and lower at the ears, temples and the base of the head). For more information, see SWOV fact sheet Bicycle helmets.

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elektrische fietsen
Part of fact sheet

Pedelecs and speed pedelecs

In 2020, over a quarter of the total number of bicycle kilometres were cycled on pedelecs; particularly the over-65s opt for pedelecs. This is also Meer

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