Electric bikes run on a rechargeable battery as opposed to an internal combustion engine (ICE). It is faster than a conventional pedal-run bicycle; it has far fewer maintenance needs than a traditional bike, and running costs associated with it are minimal – yes, it’s an electric bicycle or e-bike!

Existing somewhere in-between a motorcycle and a regular bicycle, an electric bicycle has been the focal point of many a controversy. People have long debated whether these modes of transport should be categorized as regular bicycles or motor vehicles.

So, what’s the conclusion? This article will explore the identity electric bicycles are conferred, especially by the law.

First Things First: What are Electric Bicycles?

Electric bicycles are not merely a buzzword. To properly define them, they are battery-run two or three-wheelers that assist the rider in propulsion. These bicycles can be divided into two categories –

·        Those that support the rider’s pedal-power

·        Those that give push via an added throttle, similar to the functionality in mopeds

What Benefits Do Electric Bicycles Offer?

You’d be surprised to know that electric bicycles are considered a threat by many, who believe that regular bicycles may go a penny-farthing if e-bicycles became popular. However, the electric bicycle revolution is not here to rob us of human-powered pedaling.

It may very well be here to enhance lives, especially with the commuting changes that the coronavirus pandemic has brought about. A report by Mordor Intelligence revealed that e-bicycle is currently a $27 billion industry! So, what’s driving this revolution? Let’s find out –

Easier Pedalling

Unlike regular bicycles, electric bicycles come with a battery-supported “assist” feature that gives a much-needed boost to accelerate. This is especially useful in cruising uphill and traveling over uneven, rugged terrain without burning yourself out.

Your feet are still in control, but you feel a sense of power that regular bicycles just cannot offer.

They Offer Good Speed

The basic logic is that the harder you pedal, the more boost the motor renders, and the faster you’ll go, but only up until a point. Electric bicycles cannot be zipped down the road at 45 mph like a motor vehicle. They are designed to stop propelling at about 25 to 28 mph.

So, you get the best of both worlds – save at least three minutes per 5-mile trip and still enjoy the scenic beauty you’re passing by!

Your Ride Frequency Will Improve

Do you ride your beloved bicycle a lot? With an electric bicycle, upward is the only way! This survey disclosed the numbers – Out of 1,800 respondents, nearly 55% rode a bicycle daily. That percentage rose to a whopping 91% after purchasing an electric bicycle.

This is mainly because electric bicycles make it possible to travel longer distances at less the effort needed to propel a regular bicycle. So, happy riding it is!

There’s an Electric Bicycle for Every Type of Cyclist

Not everyone needs an electric bicycle for heavy-duty usage. But some wish to explore rough, unchartered terrains daily. Fret not! Electric bicycles cover all needs. There’s a suitable e-bicycle for the commuter, cargo, head trail, performance, mountain-mode, and more styles and needs.

The same diversity is not found in regular bicycles.

They Can Substitute for Driving

Surprising as it is, many people ride their electric bicycles to avoid an excessive car or motor vehicle trips. The underlying reasons can be even more varied – some do so due to environmental concerns, and others wish to avoid being stuck in traffic or cruising around searching for a parking spot. Let’s not forget the hike in fuel prices!

Plus, given the fact that most everyday trips are shorter than 10 miles, electric bicycles make the perfect sense.

But Can E-Bicycles Still Be Categorized under Motorized Vehicles?

Beneficial as they are, can electric bicycles still be considered motor vehicles? Let’s take a look at the Federal Law, which was altered on a national level in 2002. Electric bicycles were classified into a three-tier system. Upon looking closely, it is clear that these two or three-wheelers are at-par with traditional pedal bicycles than motor vehicles.

What are the Three Tiers?

Let’s look at how the Federal law classifies electric bicycles into three tiers. These tiers are essentially influenced by –

·        The maximum speed the bicycle may reach

·        Whether or not it is pedal-assisted

Class 1 Electric Bicycles

These are pedal-assisted, but they only assist while pedaling. The assistance ceases once the engine reaches a speed of 20 mph.

Class 2 Electric Bicycles

These electric bicycles are designed to accelerate the motor using a throttle system. They also stop providing assistance once the speed reaches a maximum of 20 mph.

Class 3 Electric Bicycles

These e-bicycles are unique in the sense that they also come with a speedometer. Here, the assistance is provided only during pedaling, and the same ceases once the bicycle has reached a maximum speed of 28 mph.

Non-Class Electric Bicycles

A whole class of electric bicycles does not belong to any of the three tiers mentioned above. These are known as low-speed electric bicycles, regulated by laws similar to conventional pedal-run bikes.

That was Just the National Level. What about the States?

The Federal Law governs electric bicycle usage nationally; however, different US states may have different regulations surrounding the use of these battery-run two or three-wheelers, mainly in terms of speed and power.

Let’s consider an example – States like Iowa and Delaware consider electric bicycles with a power lower than 750 wattages and a maximum speed of 20 mph to be in line with traditional bicycles. But, states like Minnesota only consider electric bicycles to be at-par with traditional bicycles if their electric motor is 1000 wattage and the maximum speed is 20 mph.

So, it’s very important to be aware of the regulations at their respective state levels.

Closing In

Despite not being classified as motorized vehicles in the US, certain states have age restrictions regarding electric bicycle use. You will need to register your bicycle or apply for a license to ride it.

For instance – Hawaiian laws demand registration and a one-time fee of $30. New Jersey goes a step further, where Class A electric bicycles do not require a license, whereas Class 2 electric bicycles will need to be registered, and the rider must own a riding license.

So you see, the law has no strict black-and-white distinction regarding whether electric bicycles are motor vehicles. Beneath the general law, it all boils down to the respective states.