What Everyone (Especially Parents) Needs to Know About Electric Bicycles (E-Bikes) in New Jersey and Pennsylvania

Our criminal defense law firm is committed to providing our clients and their families with the most up to date information regarding the laws in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.  While we often advise clients and their families about their constitutional rights with a focus on issues such as illegal searches, probable cause and actual vs. constructive possession of contraband (gun, narcotics), we also try to keep our clients informed on traffic laws.  These offenses typically are often not as serious as crimes and offenses but understanding them is nevertheless important.

Electric Bike (E-Bike) have grown in popularity as people look for alternative ways to travel due distances to rising fuel prices along with cost of other goods from basic staple groceries to a Happy Meal!  These 2 wheel electrically assisted vehicles are called E-Bikes but they are all NOT created equally.  Some fall other the traditional laws and regulations covering bicycles but others are considered motorcycle which have an minimum age and license requirement. 

Here is what you need to know about E Bike!

How does New Jersey regulate E-Bike?  

‍In New Jersey, there are two classes for low-speed electric bicycles:

Class 1: Bicycles that are equipped with a motor that provides assistance exclusively when the rider is pedaling. The motor shuts off when the electric bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph.

Class 2: Bicycles are equipped with a motor that is activated by a throttle. The motor shuts off when the electric bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph.

Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles fall under the same regulations as traditional bicycles. This means that they are subject to the same road rules and regulations.

Class 3: These bicycles are defined as motorized bicycles. A motorized bicycle is not subject to the same rules of the road as traditional bicycles in New Jersey.  Class 3 have a minimum age requirement of 15 years. There is no age limit for Class 1 and 2 electric bikes.

Helmet Requirements: Helmets are required for riders of Class 1 and 2 electric bicycles under 17 years of age. Helmet use is required for all riders of motorized bicycles  

Licensing, Registration, and Insurance: Class 1 and 2 electric bike riders do not need a driver’s license, registration, or insurance. Class 3 riders must have an operator’s license and are subject to registration and insurance requirements.

How does Pennsylvania regulate E-Bike?  

Unlike New Jersey, Ebikes  in Pennsylvania are not subject to the registration, licensing or insurance requirements that apply to motor vehicles.  To be considered an E-Bike in Pennsylvania, the e-bike cannot exceed 750w and must have operable pedals.  This means that a vehicle that exceeds this power output is NOT a E-Bike (even if the manufacturer labels it as such).  The Commonwealth does require a rider to be at least 16 years age.  Helmets are not required.  In Pennsylvania, all cyclists under 12 years of age must wear a helmet. Since you can only ride an electric bicycle from 16 and up, there are technically no helmet requirements for e-bike riders.

Our law firm wishes you and your family continued health and safety on and off the roads!