| Ebike Law in the USA |
means that you can ride in bike lanes, on the road, and on sidewalks in most cities (some cities restrict bicycles from some sidewalks in some pedestrian areas). Riding an electric bike doesn't require a license, registration, or insurance. The main thing to understand is that our products follow the same rules and laws as bicycles. The US government passed an amendment that defines what an electric bicycle is. Here is this from the Consumer Product Safety Commission Web Site: "For the purpose of this section, the term low-speed electric bicycle means a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.), whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20 mph." The act further states: "For purposes of motor vehicle safety standards issued and enforced pursuant to chapter 301 of title 49, United States Code, a low-speed electric bicycle (as defined in section 38(b) of the Consumer Product Safety Act) shall not be considered a motor vehicle as defined by section 30102(6) of title 49, United States Code. Passed the House of Representatives March 6, 2001." The key points here are the speed limit of 20 MPH and with fully operable pedals. Anything other than this is a Motor Vehicle and must have a Title, License, and Registration - AND - follow all of the safety rules that apply to motor vehicles. This means that many products won't ever be legal to ride on public streets. They simply won't ever pass the tough requirements set by the Department of Transportation(DOT) and Consumers Product Safety Commission for motor vehicles. The US Department of transportation also has ruled on electric Bicycles and also has the 20 mph limit. This is our best understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding electric bicycles. Please consult your local officials for complete details for your area. This is NOT legal advice. |
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