One issue is that the pedals could be practically cosmetic, if the power added by the motor is such that pedaling is unnecessary. This was true with some early mopeds too -- the pedals were pretty much good for starting the motor and nothing else. I'm seeing more of this as e-bikes evolve towards smaller diameter, wider tires and heavier frames.
The US "class" system seems useful, inasmuch as it more or less specifies the capability of the bike with and without pedaling. I'm all for adding a new transportation / recreation option, and have adopted a wait-and-see attitude for how the technology and its use will evolve. So far, e-bikes have not affected my use of a conventional bike, except for people asking me when I'm going to get an e-bike.
The US "class" system seems useful, inasmuch as it more or less specifies the capability of the bike with and without pedaling. I'm all for adding a new transportation / recreation option, and have adopted a wait-and-see attitude for how the technology and its use will evolve. So far, e-bikes have not affected my use of a conventional bike, except for people asking me when I'm going to get an e-bike.