Low-Speed Electric Bicycles

An electric bicycle capable of speeds above 20 mph is considered a moped or motorcycle in most U.S. states.

Worries are growing about carbon emissions and personal transportation and, as such, the electric bicycle industry has seen a major rise in electric bicycle interest. However, many people have several concerns about electric motor bicycles. The laws concerning electric bicycles are confusing since a bicycle with an electric motor is considered one of three vehicles in the United States: a bicycle, a moped or a motorcycle.

Electric Bicycle Variations

Low-speed electric bicycles must travel under 20 miles per hour, and the motor must put out no more than 750 watts to retain the legal definition of bicycle in most U.S. states. Electric motor bicycles traveling above 20 mph under motor power, but less than 30 mph, are mopeds in many states. Electric motor bicycles traveling above 30 mph are motorcycles in several states. Mopeds and motorcycles must follow all federal, state and local laws governing such vehicles.

Federal Electric Bicycle Laws

Low-speed electric bicycles are exempt from federal motor vehicle status, according to industry magazine Electric-Bikes.com. This applies only to the manufacturing codes bicycles must meet. State and local laws govern bicycle and electric vehicle operation, registration and titling. Federal bicycle law considers an electric motor vehicle to be a bicycle if thetop motor speed is under 20 mph.

State and Local Laws

Most state and local governing bodies regulate low-speed electric bicycles as bicycles. Bicycles are permitted to use roadways and bicycle specific paths. Several states do not require bicycle helmet use. Some cities allow bicycle traffic on sidewalks. Many areas consider bicycles to be zero emission vehicles (ZEV), according to Electric-Bikes.com.

Electric Assist Bicycles

Many low-speed electric bicycles are electric assist bicycles. Mike Hanlon with Gizmag reports electric assist technology is a computer that determines the amount of assistance power a motor must generate to aid a rider moving up an incline or into a headwind. Electric assist bicycles are typically governed--speed regulated--under 20 mph, and motor assistance stops if the vehicle achieves or surpasses this speed.

Electric Bicycle Motor Kits

While many bicycle manufacturers and electric vehicle manufacturers build low-speed electric bicycles, several kits exist to aid the DIY crowd in converting an existing bicycle to electric power. Several power kits are available, including low-speed and electric assist kits. Most quality kits will cost upward of $1,000 new.

References

• Electric-Bikes: Legal Issues
• Gizmag: Aprilia’s Electric Assist Bicycle--Sensible Inner City Commuter