Otis Singleton
Electric bikes are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transport in the United States. However, the laws surrounding their use vary from state to state, creating a complex patchwork of regulations that can be confusing for riders. While most states permit e-bikes on the same paths as traditional bicycles, local authorities have the power to impose restrictions. This means that riders need to be aware of the regulations mandated by their city, county, or town. In this article, we will explore the different classifications, power and speed limits, age restrictions, and other key regulations that govern electric bikes on the nation's roads.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Speed limit | 20 miles per hour for Class 1 and 2 bikes, 28 miles per hour for Class 3 bikes |
| Local speed restrictions | Riders should observe local speed limits when on roads, especially in areas such as school zones |
| Local government restrictions | Local governments can impose additional restrictions, such as restricting Class 3 bikes on bike paths and sidewalks |
| State restrictions | In some states, e-bikes may be operated on roads but not on sidewalks or bike paths: Alabama, Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin |
| Exceptions | In Florida, e-bikes are allowed on sidewalks but not on bike paths when using human power alone |
| License or permit | Required if the rider is younger than 17 years of age |
Speed limits
Electric bicycles are generally considered "bicycles" in the United States, meaning that all bicycle regulations apply to them, including operation in bike lanes. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, electric bicycles are restricted from operating on sidewalks, and riders under the age of 17 must have a license or permit.
State law defines a motorized pedalcycle as a motor-driven cycle equipped with operable pedals, a motor rated at no more than 1.5 brake horsepower, a cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 cubic centimeters, an automatic transmission, and a maximum design speed of no more than 25 miles per hour.
In some provinces, certain versions of e-bikes (e.g. those capable of operating without pedalling) require a driver's license and have age restrictions. These e-bikes are considered vehicles and are subject to the same rules as motorcycles and pedal cycles.
Local governments and departments are authorised to restrict e-bike use if it is deemed unsafe or inconsistent with the welfare of others, or if it is necessary to meet the terms of any legal agreements concerning the land on which a bikeway is located.
E-bike manufacturers are required to comply with mandatory safety standards set by the CPSC, and superintendents can restrict or stop the use of e-bikes in park areas if they pose unforeseen safety issues or threats to natural resources. BLM managers can also authorise the use of e-bikes on trails limited to bicycles and non-motorised travel, provided it is in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
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Local restrictions
Electric bicycles are considered "bicycles" rather than motor vehicles in the United States, meaning that all bicycle regulations apply to electric bicycles, including operation in bike lanes. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as a restriction of operation on sidewalks and the requirement for a license or permit for riders under the age of 17.
Local governments in the United States have the power to impose additional restrictions on electric bicycle use. For example, some states impose additional safety restrictions for riders on Class 3 cycles, which are the most restricted classification of electric bicycles. Class 3 electric bicycles are more commonly restricted on bike paths and sidewalks as they are allowed to travel at faster speeds, making them better suited for road use. In some states, such as Alabama, Alaska, and Iowa, electric bicycles may be operated on roads but are prohibited on sidewalks or bike paths. However, some cities or local authorities may have exceptions to these regulations. For instance, in Florida, electric bicycles are permitted on sidewalks but are not allowed on bike paths when using human power alone.
Local speed restrictions may also apply in specific areas. While some states have a specific speed limit for electric bicycles, riders should also observe local speed limits when on roads. It is important to follow the local speed limits, especially in areas such as school zones, even if your electric bicycle is capable of reaching higher speeds. The federal speed limit for electric bicycles in the United States is 20 miles per hour or less under motor power alone. However, the federal law acknowledges that electric bicycles can travel faster when the rider uses a combination of human pedal and motor power.
A local unit of government with jurisdiction over a road or bikeway can restrict electric bicycle use if it is deemed inconsistent with the safety or general welfare of others or if the restriction is necessary to comply with legal agreements concerning the land on which a bikeway is located. These local restrictions can vary depending on the specific location and the governing body's decisions, so it is essential to stay informed about the regulations in your area.
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Road vs sidewalk use
Electric bicycles are generally considered "bicycles" in the United States, meaning that they are subject to the same rules of the road as regular bicycles. This includes operation in bike lanes, but not on sidewalks.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, a license or permit is required if the rider is under the age of 17. In some provinces, certain types of e-bikes (such as those capable of operating without pedalling) may require a driver's license and have age restrictions.
Local governments have the authority to restrict e-bike use on roads or bikeways if it is deemed unsafe or inconsistent with the welfare of others. This includes the Department of Natural Resources for state bike trails and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for trails limited to bicycles and non-motorized travel.
E-bike manufacturers are required to comply with mandatory safety standards set by the CPSC, and superintendents can restrict or stop e-bike use in park areas if safety issues or threats to natural resources arise.
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Age restrictions
Electric bicycles are generally considered "bicycles" rather than motor vehicles in the United States, meaning that all bicycle regulations apply to electric bicycles. This includes operation in bike lanes, but not on sidewalks.
However, there are some age restrictions in place. Riders under the age of 17 will need a license or permit to ride an electric bicycle. In addition, some versions of e-bikes that are capable of operating without pedalling may require a driver's license and have age restrictions. These are considered vehicles in the same way as motorcycles and pedal cycles, and are therefore subject to the same rules of the road as regular bicycles.
It is also worth noting that electric bicycles are prohibited wherever motorized vehicles are prohibited. For example, electric bicycles are allowed on BLM trails limited to bicycles and non-motorized travel only if a BLM Manager has issued a written decision authorising their use.
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Motor power
Electric bicycles are generally considered "bicycles" rather than motor vehicles in the United States, meaning that all bicycle regulations apply to electric bicycles. This includes operation in bike lanes, but not on sidewalks. Electric bicycles are subject to the same rules of the road as regular bicycles, and vehicle licenses and liability insurance are not required.
However, there are some exceptions to this. In some provinces, certain versions of e-bikes (e.g. those capable of operating without pedalling) require a driver's license and have age restrictions. A license or permit is also required if the rider is younger than 17 years of age.
State law defines a motorized pedalcycle as a motor-driven cycle equipped with operable pedals, a motor rated at no more than 1.5 brake horsepower, a cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 cubic centimeters, an automatic transmission, and a maximum design speed of no more than 25 miles per hour.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is responsible for evaluating and making recommendations about electrical safety standards for consumer products manufactured and sold in the United States. E-bike manufacturers are required to comply with mandatory standards set by the CPSC. If the use of e-bikes in park areas results in unforeseen safety issues or threats to natural resources, superintendents can restrict or stop their use until such risks can be properly addressed.
Local governments are also authorized to restrict e-bike use if it is inconsistent with the safety or general welfare of others, or if it is necessary to meet the terms of any legal agreements concerning the land on which a bikeway is located.
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Frequently asked questions
The federal speed limit for e-bikes is 20 miles per hour or less under motor power alone. However, some states have a specific speed limit for electric bikes, and riders should also observe local speed limits when on roads.
Class 3 e-bikes are the most restricted classification. They are more commonly restricted on bike paths and sidewalks as they are allowed to go faster, making them better suited to road use. In some states, e-bikes may be operated on roads but cannot be used on sidewalks or bike paths.
A license or permit is required if the rider is younger than 17 years of age.
