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E-Bikes

Technology advancements have now made e-bikes more affordable and prevalent in recent years. But that same advancement in technology can unintentionally cause e-bike riders to be in violation of Pennsylvania vehicle laws. Here is a breakdown of how the law applies to e-bikes in Pennsylvania.

Rules of the Road

Pennsylvania law regarding e-bikes is nuanced and is applied dependent on the specific type of e-bike being ridden. The state considers them vehicles, but licensing, registration, inspection, and insurance laws differ depending on the manufacturer’s design specifications. Although bicycles are generally legal to ride on the road, many e-bikes may be illegal to ride on Pennsylvania roads.

Defining an E-Bike

The PA Vehicle Code refers to an e-bike as a Pedalcycle with electric assist and defines them by the following characteristics:

  • Weighs less than 100 pounds
  • No more than three wheels
  • Wheels must be greater than 11 inches in diameter
  • Must have operable pedals
  • Electric motor less than 750 watts
  • Designed to go less than 20 mph on a level road with the motor alone

How the Laws Apply to Riders

If the specific e-bike meets the characteristics listed above:

  • It is not required to be registered, insured, or inspected
  • No license required of the rider
  • Rider must be 16 years or older
  • No helmet required of the rider

If the specific e-bike exceeds the above characteristics then it would be considered a motor vehicle and would be governed by other sections of the Vehicle Code.

Sidewalk Use

Like bicycles, it is legal to ride e-bikes on public sidewalks (except business districts) in Pennsylvania, but all other laws and rules relating to the vehicle characteristics and rider age/licensing requirements are still applicable.

Township Parks

Upper Allen Township has specific rules about e-bikes in parks:

  • Safety First: You must operate any wheeled device, including e-bikes, with reasonable caution for the safety of others and property (Ordinance 175-8 (K)).
  • Restricted Areas: e-bikes (along with skateboards, skates, scooters, and bicycles) are not permitted in pavilions, courts, playgrounds, or picnic areas (Ordinance 175-9(X)).

Where Can I Legally Ride?

If your e-bike fits the definition of a Pedalcycle with electric assist and you are 16 or more years old, you can legally ride anywhere that is legal for unpowered bicycles to ride.

If you are under 16 years old your e-bike does not fit the definition of a Pedalcycle with electric assist, the primary location where you may ride your e-bike is private property.

Staying Informed

If you are unsure whether your e-bike is legal to ride on the roadway, contact the Upper Allen Police to speak with an officer who can assist with sorting out the information specific to your e-bike.

It’s important to be aware that rules and regulations about e-bikes can change. Keep yourself up to date through these sources: