Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, have become increasingly popular as they have made biking easier and more comfortable, expanding the range of trips and riders. E-bikes have been incorporated into bike-sharing systems across the country, providing an additional transportation option for many communities.

E-bikes include a small electric motor that can be activated by pedaling or through a handlebar-mounted throttle or switch. They generally resemble standard bicycles, and traditional bicycles can often be converted into e-bikes. Most e-bikes have a top speed of 20 to 28 miles per hour, which has been an important factor in their classification and regulation. While regulations vary by state and municipality, at the Federal level, e-bikes are considered to have a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour when powered exclusively by motor.

As of 2020, 26 States had adopted legislation regulating e-bikes using a three-tier classification system, while 18 States had defined e-bikes in some manner. In other States, e-bike regulations have sometimes been unclear, with classifications overlapping with mopeds or scooters. Some municipalities have established their own regulations governing e-bike use, particularly on trails, paths, and sidewalks. The Department of the Interior announced that e-bikes may be permitted on public lands, where traditional bicycles are allowed, as determined by local land managers and existing State and local regulations.

Resources

Electric Bicycles Resources shares information on e-bikes including literature review summaries, fact sheets, research, and case studies.

State Electric Bicycle Laws - a Legislative Primer offers in-depth discussion of the legal regulations that pertain to e-bikes.

New E-Bike Incentive Design Toolkit includes sample legislation, overview of existing programs, and best practices.

E-Bikes: Charging Toward Compact Cycling Cities defines e-bikes and assesses their usage patterns, benefits, and challenges.

PeopleForBikes shares up-to-date information on Federal and local e-bike policies as well as resources for e-bike retailers and people interested in electric mountain bikes.

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Examples

E-Bike Incentive and Lending Program Directory tracks and provides links to e-bike incentive and lending programs in North America.

Case Study: E-Bike Libraries Advance Mobility Options showcases a long-term e-bike lending library that also provides rider training and wayfinding.

The Electric Assist: Leveraging E-bikes and E-scooters for More Livable Communities discusses the role of e-bikes and e-scooters in making communities more livable.

Michigan: New Policy Opens Thousands of Miles of Trails to E-Bikes reports on a State policy that expands e-bike access to thousands of miles of trails.

New Electric Mountain Bike Policy Database offers a searchable database of nearly 500 electric mountain bike and e-bike policies across the U.S., outlining rules relating to e-bikes.

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