Class 2 Electric Bike Laws

Three classes of electric bikes now exist in the state with laws as to where each type may operate.

Class 2 electric bike laws.

Choosing between class 1 2 and 3 e bikes could be a little difficult if you are not exactly sure of what the difference between each class is. Both class 1 and class 2 e bikes are permitted on bicycle or multi use paths. These e bikes are legal on any paved surface that a regular bike is allowed to operate. From a legal perspective class 2 ebikes are defined as bicycles and subject to the same rules as bicycles.

Class 1 ebikes are low speed pedal assisted. For more information on new hampshire s electric bike laws click here. Class 2 electric bikes that are equipped with a throttle and that can function even without pedaling will. Class 3 electric bikes cannot be ridden by anyone under the age of 16 and class 3 ebikes will also be banned from using class 1 bike paths a k a.

Assembly bill 1096 defines an electric bicycle as a bike with fully operable pedals and an electric motor up to 750 watts. Class 2 ebikes or low speed throttle assisted electric bicycle are equipped with motors that can exclusively propel the bicycle but that cannot provide assistance when the bike reaches 20 mph. In 2015 california updated its bicycle laws to accommodate electric bicycles. Class 3 e bikes are only allowed on the roadway unless otherwise indicated by the local authority.

Class 2 some of the most popular womens ebikes are class 2 models. The law defined a low speed electric bicycle as 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. The federal consumer product safety act defines a low speed electric bicycle as a two or three wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals a top speed when powered solely by the motor under 20 mph 32 km h and an electric motor that produces less than 750 w 1 01 hp. Ebikes categorized as class 2 have either a thumb or twist throttle a top assist speed of 20 mph and an electric motor rated at 750w or less for nominal output.

While class 1 and class 2 electric assisted bicycles are not explicitly prohibited from riding on sidewalks it is unlawful to ride a class 3 electric assisted bicycle on a sidewalk unless there is no alternative. Multi use paths but may use bike lanes and protected bike lanes on public roadways. The drive systems on this class of electric bicycles can be activated by a throttle such as a button or grip twist located on the handlebars or another. Luckily for you here at aventon we are striving to become your go to e bike experts to help you along the way with making the best decision when choosing the type of e bike that would best fit you.

Laws and policies can change at any time rendering the above information outdated and non applicable.