Starting September 1, 2025, China's updated national standard for electric bicycles, officially titled the Safety Technical Specification for Electric Bicycles (GB 17761–2024), has come into force. If you ride, sell, or plan to buy an e-bike, here's a quick guide to what’s changed and how it affects you. 

Q What's new in the standard?    

A:The rules set higher safety and performance thresholds. 

Key updates include:         

1️⃣ Stronger fire-resistance requirements for non-metallic materials. 

2️⃣ Tighter controls on the proportion of plastic parts. Plastic parts can't make up more than 5.5% of the bike's total weight, a measure aimed at reducing fire risks. 

3️⃣ Better braking systems that cut stopping distance in half, including in rainy conditions. 

4️⃣ Anti-tampering measures for batteries, controllers, and speed limiters to prevent illegal modifications. The controller will cut off motor power once the bike exceeds 25 km/h. 

5️⃣ Weight limit raised from 55 kg to 63 kg for lead-acid battery models, allowing longer range. 

6️⃣ All new bikes must be fitted with Beidou satellite positioning for real-time monitoring, though private users can switch it off if they prefer. 

7️⃣ No longer compulsory for every bike to include pedals. 

8️⃣ Encouragement (but not mandatory) to add mirrors. 

9️⃣ Manufacturers must now state the recommended service life of each e-bike on its nameplate and certificate. 

The stricter rules aim to reduce fire hazards, improve road safety, and prevent illegal modifications. They also make e-bikes more reliable for daily commuting, with better braking, safer batteries, and clearer product information for consumers. 

Q Can I still use my old e-bike?    

A:Yes. If you already own an e-bike that doesn't meet the new rules, you don't need to worry about an immediate ban. Local governments may offer trade-in programs to encourage upgrades, but for now, older bikes remain road-legal.    

Q What about bikes currently being sold?    

A:Starting September 1, 2025, all newly manufactured e-bikes must comply with the new national standard. E-bikes produced under the old standard before August 31, 2025, can continue to be sold during a three-month grace period, ending November 30, 2025. From December 1, 2025 onward, all e-bikes on the market must comply with the new standard.       

Q How can I make sure I'm buying the right bike?    

Two quick checks can give you peace of mind:  

1️⃣CCC certification. Every e-bike must carry the official China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark. This confirms the bike has been tested by accredited institutions and meets mandatory national standards. 

2️⃣Product certificate. Each bike comes with a unique certificate listing its model, serial number, and technical details. Buyers should confirm the information matches the actual bike. Certificates can be verified online via the national certification platform (cx.cnca.cn).   

The new standard is all about safer, smarter, and more reliable e-bikes. If you're shopping for one, make sure it's certified and properly labeled. If you already own a bike, you can keep riding without worry, just stay tuned for any local upgrade programs that may come your way.