Guidelines for Importing Electric Bikes
Electric bikes are fast and fun. But in order to protect the public, especially children, the Consumer Product Safety Commission established strict federal regulations and guidelines regarding the import and use of electric bikes.
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The Electric Bike
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The Consumer Product Safety Commission defines an electric bike as any two- or three-wheeled vehicle with a motor of less than one horse power. This vehicle will have operating pedals. When under the power of the motor and ridden by an individual of at least 170 pounds, the maximum speed will be less than 20 miles per hour. This information is derived from the Federal Code of Regulations 16 CFR 1512.2.
Importing The Electric Bike
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Any imported electric bike must meet the labeling requirements as defined by CPSC. These labeling requirements state that a bike will have an instruction manual attached to the frame or be included in the shipped package. The manual will contain operating and safety instructions, assembly instructions, and maintenance instructions. The bike will also be marked to identify the manufacturer and the month/year of manufacture. This mark is to be fitted to the bike in a fashion that can not be removed. Read the complete labeling details in 16 CFR 1512.19.
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Illegal Electric Bikes
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Any electric bike that does not meet the requirements in the Federal Code of Regulations 16 CFR 1512, which includes the braking system, pedals, drive chain, steering, protective guard, tires, wheels, wheel hubs, fork and assembly, seat, and reflectors, is considered hazardous and banned from import, sale or use in the United States. It would be helpful to read the regulations and guidelines in its entirety on the GPO website before attempting to import an electric bike.
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References
- Photo Credit tourist and bike image by Yuri Davidov from Fotolia.com
