The law defined a low-speed electric bicycle as “A two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.), whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20 mph.” NCSL
Some states have adopted the 3 tier classification of e-bikes …
Class 1 electric bicycle: A bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
Class 2 electric bicycle: A bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
Class 3 electric bicycle: A bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour and is equipped with a speedometer.
Sadly … “Any device outside of these definitions is not considered a low-speed electric bicycle that would be regulated as a bicycle.”
A FREE GIFT awaits you!
Steve, I wonder why in North America, (And I include Canada in this.) why the governments insist on confining e-power cyclists to the very unstable three wheel layout, when elsewhere on this earth, a low powered e-drive four wheeler is permitted to be used by cyclists having a far greater resistance against ‘spilling’ on cornering. Is it because the governments wish to see more accidents, thus driving people to cars where they can be heavily taxed for extra government revenue?