eBikes as Bicycles, Mopeds or Motorcycles

Question

Andy asked: Are E-bikes legal? I’m a sales rep for the bicycle industry. I just got pulled over with a warning due to not being registered like a normal motorcycle, car etc. What is the LAW on this subject matter? Need help before I sell tons to shops in the market place.

Answer

Bicycles with electric assist motors are legal and do not require a title, registration or a driver’s license if they meet the statutory definition of bicycle.

s. 316.003Definitions

The following words and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this section, except where the context otherwise requires:

(2) Bicycle – Every vehicle propelled solely by human power, and every motorized bicycle propelled by a combination of human power and an electric helper motor capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of not more than 20 miles per hour on level ground upon which any person may ride, having two tandem wheels, and including any device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped with two front or two rear wheels. The term does not include such a vehicle with a seat height of no more than 25 inches from the ground when the seat is adjusted to its highest position or a scooter or similar device. No person under the age of 16 may operate or ride upon a motorized bicycle.

An eBike could be a moped or a motorcycle if they have the power and other attributes of those vehicles. Those must be registered and require a driver’s license. See the posts about motorized bicycles on this site.

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