We have seen an increase in the popularity of E-Bikes and similar vehicles this year. While they are a great option for many people, we would like to remind everyone that there are laws pertaining to their use. Parents and Guardians, please review this information before making a purchase and certainly before your children start riding. Safety is our number one concern.

We also want to remind everyone that, in general, bicyclists and riders of similar vehicles must follow all of the rules of the road, just like the driver of a car.

Attached to this post is PennDOT publication 944 which provides a lot of information pertaining to this topic. Below are some excerpts from that document that we found to be helpful.

Please be safe!

E-Bikes: 

You must be 16 years old to legally operate an E-Bike. DUI is a possible charge on an E-Bike. They are classified as a “pedalcycle with electric assist” under state law. E-Bikes are defined as a vehicle weighing no more than 100 pounds with two or three wheels more than 11 inches in diameter, manufactured or assembled with an electric motor system rated at not more than 750 watts and equipped with operable pedals and capable of a speed not more than 20 miles per hour on a level surface when powered by the motor source only. Source: PennDOT PUB 944 (6-26).

Motorized Pedalcycle: 

You must have a Class C driver’s license to legally operate a Motorized Pedalcycle. DUI is a possible charge on a Motorized Pedalcycle. They are classified as a “Motorized Pedalcycle” under state law. Motorized Pedalcycles are defined as an electric or non-electric motor-driven cycle equipped with operable pedals and an automatic transmission, with a maximum design speed of no more than 25 miles per hour. Non-electric Motorized Pedalcycles must have a motor rated no more than 1.5 brake horsepower and a cylinder capacity not exceeding 50cc. A Motorized Pedalcycle is a type of motor-driven cycle, and therefore also a type of motorcycle. Source: PennDOT PUB 944 (6-26).

Motor Scooter: 

You must have a Class C or M driver’s license to legally operate a Motor Scooter (depending on the engine size). DUI is a possible charge on a Motor Scooter. They are classified as a “motor-driven cycle” under state law. Motor Scooters are defined as a motorcycle with a motor that does not exceed five brake horsepower. Like all motorcycles, it must have a seat or saddle, and either be designed to travel with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground OR designed to travel on two wheels in contact with the ground with the addition of two stabilizing wheels on the rear of the motor vehicle. Source: PennDOT PUB 944 (6-26).