Understanding E-bike Rules and Regulations Across North America
This is not legal advice. We will be discussing ebike rules and regulations and maybe share a few thoughts on why some of them might be a little silly. Stick around to the end to see some truly egregious examples of folks just ignoring them completely.
What Defines an Ebike?
Across North America, an ebike is normally defined as a bicycle with function in pedals and an electric motor to assist you. That’s the definition we will be working with today.
Ebike Laws Vary by Location
Ebike rules and regulations vary from place to place. Here at Biktrix, we work primarily within North America. We have worked with some folks in Europe before, and don’t even get me started on European ebike class. Like, we’re not going to start on them, we’re just going to leave Europe to Europe. In Canada and the US, they tend to fall under a few categories: federal, state or provincial, municipal, and then some special laws for special places like state parks, provincial parks, and national parks. So we can dig into all of that later.
Do You Need a License?
A question commonly asked is, do I need a license to ride this bike? In general, in most places, the answer is no, probably not. As long as your ebike looks like an ebike and not, you know, more motorcycle than bicycle, you’re probably fine. But if your so-called ebike looks more like a dirt bike or motorcycle, or has what I call vestigial panels, you might want to just double-check on that licensing question for your location.
Can Kids Ride Ebikes?
We’re often asked, can kids ride ebikes? Can I buy this for my child? That’s kind of a personal question that’s up to you. However, we do not recommend ebikes for kids as they’re very powerful, and kids often don’t have the strength or skills needed to handle them. Most places also have laws about age limitations of who can and cannot ride an ebike.
The Ebike Class System in the US
In the US, ebikes are divided into three classes:
- Class 1: Pedal assist only, no throttle, up to 20 mph.
- Class 2: Pedal assist and a throttle, up to 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal assist only, no throttle, up to 28 mph, must have a speedometer.
Battery Regulations: Recent Changes
In New York City, laws targeting batteries came into play in the second half of 2023. Only ebikes with UL-certified batteries are allowed due to apartment fires caused by questionable manufacturers.
Ebike Regulations in Canada
Canada’s laws vary from province to province and territory to territory. In Saskatchewan, an ebike is defined as a bicycle or tricycle with pedals and an electric motor, with no more than a 500W motor, and can only go up to 32 km/h.
Higher Wattage Ebikes: Allowed or Not?
In Canada, most places say your ebike can only be 500W, and in the US, it’s 750W. Yet, companies sell bikes that are 1,000W, 2,300W, 3,000W. These rules regulate what consumers can use, not what manufacturers can sell.
Ebike Usage in Special Areas
Some places like state or provincial parks, national parks, and independently owned trails have specific rules. Some hunting trails won’t allow ATVs, but allow Class 2 ebikes, or allow only Class 1. Make sure to check ahead.
Following the Rules of the Road
When commuting or riding in traffic, follow the rules of the road. Use bike lanes, stay off the sidewalk, stop for stop signs and lights, obey the rules of traffic for your own safety and those around you.
Consequences of Ignoring Ebike Laws
If riding an unlocked thousand-watt bike on regular trails, most law enforcement probably won’t notice as long as you’re riding respectfully. But if you’re stunting and speeding, then those consequences are on your head.
Wrapping Up
There’s a lot of layers to ebike rules and laws. It is up to you to be aware of your bike, know what you have, and respect the rules. For the most part, rules are available online, just give it a quick Google. In the comments, let me know if there’s an ebike law you think is particularly silly or maybe one you’re unclear on. And while you’re here, like and subscribe to stay up to date on all things ebike.
