Statement of support for electric-assist bicycles to be defined as bicycles, with a three class system and in accordance with the federal definition

As the principal bicycle manufacturers and suppliers in the United States, accountable for a $5.3 billion industry, we support state-by- state efforts to clarify the definition of low-speed electric-assist bicycles (e-bikes) and update state laws so that certain e-bikes may be used much like regular bicycles.

E-bikes are as convenient and safe as bicycles and move at bike-like speeds. As a new and clean-technology transportation option, their widespread use in the United States and other countries has brought the pleasure and freedom of bicycling to millions with no compromise in consumer safety.

However, there is currently confusion at the state level with respect to how e-bikes are defined and regulated. The general public and government agencies are not aware of the differences in the multitude of technologies, or familiar with where they can ride an electric bicycle. Ambiguous language in many states’ vehicle classifications, which were often crafted before modern e-bikes existed, creates significant confusion for manufacturers, suppliers, and consumers.

The federal government has done its part in providing a framework definition of e-bikes. In 2002, federal law was amended to distinguish bicycles with low-speed electric motors capable of reaching speeds of 20 mph or less from motorcycles, mopeds, and motor vehicles. For the purposes of federal law, e-bikes are consumer products that are regulated identically to traditional bicycles. However, the legal framework at the state level is outdated. Although modern e-bikes are designed to behave almost exactly like a regular bicycle, they are frequently regulated as “motorized bicycles” or “mopeds.” Some states impose restrictions that bar their use on many bikeways, and have convoluted licensing and registration requirements.

As of 2016, 23 states and DC have laws that provide a definition of e-bikes that treat them as a bicycle, and in 2015, California, Nebraska, and Montana passed laws incorporating e-bikes into the definition of “bicycle” within their traffic statutes, ensuring that e-bikes are regulated like traditional bicycles. In 2016, progressive e-bike bills have passed in Utah and Tennessee, and others are pending in North Carolina, Michigan, South Carolina, New York, Delaware and Vermont. Bills like these are important steps in clarifying the law surrounding the use of e-bikes. 

Communities across the country face transportation challenges related to traffic congestion, local air quality, climate change, obesity and physical inactivity, and economic burdens.

Encouraging alternative modes of transportation, such as bicycling, can help address these challenges. By overcoming barriers to cycling such as distance, age and disability, e-bikes can help more people cycle. E-bikes use green battery technology and would be an important addition to the United States’ growing energy-efficient transportation system. In addition, e-bikes benefit small business owners by providing a cost-effective alternative to cars and trucks when used for equipment transport and deliveries.

We urge you to work toward the passage of a bill that clarifies the definition of electric bicycles.

Sincerely,

Accell North America, Kent, WABig Cat Electric Bicycles, Holbrook, NYBionX International, Aurora, ONBMC Switzerland, San Diego, CABosch eBike Systems, Irvine, CACurrie Technologies, Simi Valley, CACycling Sports Group, Wilton, CTEG Bike, Canton, MAEvelo Electric Bicycles, Cambridge, MAFaraday Bicycles, San Francisco, CAFelt Bicycles, Irvine CAGiant Bicycle, Newbury Park, CAHaibike, Simi Valley, CAHawley, Lexington, SCJ & B Importers, Miami, FLKuberg, Camino, CAOhm Cycles, Abbotsford, BCProcycle Group, North Vancouver, BCPure Fix Cycles, Burbank, CARevolve Electric Bikes, Elmsford, NYSanta Monica Electric Vehicles, Las Vegas, NVShimano, Irvine, CASpecialized Bicycle Components, Morgan Hill, CASRAM Corporation, Chicago, ILTern Bicycles North America, Lakewood, CATrek Bicycle Corporation, Waterloo, WIXtracycle, Oakland, CAYuba Bicycles, Petaluma, CA