Translation guide
In Japanese, 'electric bicycle' usually refers to a 電動アシスト自転車 (pedal-assist e-bike), not a throttle-controlled electric bike. The distinction is important for legal and practical reasons.
A bicycle with an electric motor that assists pedaling, up to 24 km/h. This is the standard legal e-bike in Japan.
The standard term for a pedal-assist electric bicycle. Often shortened in casual speech.
電動アシスト自転車を買いました。
I bought an electric bicycle.
A common abbreviation of 電動アシスト自転車. Widely understood, but technically could include throttle e-bikes.
電動自転車は坂道が楽です。
Electric bicycles make hills easy.
Short for 電動アシスト自転車. Common in advertising and casual conversation.
アシスト自転車のバッテリーが切れた。
The battery on my electric bicycle died.
A bicycle that can be propelled by a motor without pedaling. These are legally classified as mopeds in Japan and require a license, registration, and insurance.
Term for a throttle e-bike, emphasizing full electric power. Not a legal term but commonly used.
フル電動自転車は免許が必要です。
A throttle electric bicycle requires a license.
Descriptive phrase to clarify the throttle function. Useful when distinguishing from pedal-assist.
Referring to the vehicle category for regulations, registration, or official documents.
Official legal classification for pedal-assist e-bikes meeting specific criteria.
この車両は電動アシスト自転車（特定小型原動機付自転車）に該当します。
This vehicle falls under the category of electric bicycle (specified small motorized bicycle).
In Japan, 'electric bicycle' (電動アシスト自転車) legally means a pedal-assist bicycle with a motor that cuts off at 24 km/h. Throttle-controlled e-bikes are classified as mopeds (原動機付自転車) and require a license, registration, and helmet. Using a throttle e-bike without proper documentation can lead to fines or arrest.
In casual conversation, 電動自転車 or アシスト自転車 are often used. If you need to be precise, use 電動アシスト自転車.
An electric bicycle that runs without pedaling is legally a moped.