E-bikes have their own set of traffic rules

by Laura Bednar

Electric bicycles have become a popular mode of transportation. In the midst of summer, police departments are driving home safety regulations for these machines. Sagamore Hills Police Chief David Hayes said in Summit County, e-bikes are legally categorized as traditional bicycles.

The state breaks them down into three classifications. Class 1 has a maximum speed of 20 mph and is pedal-assist only. Class 2 is throttle-assisted and also has a maximum of 20 mph. Class 3 is pedal-assist only with a maximum speed of 28 mph, and operators must be at least 16 years old.

A helmet is required by state law for Class 3 bike operators and passengers. In Summit County, riders under 16 on Class 1 or 2 e-bikes must also wear a helmet. A driver’s license and insurance are not required for standard e-bikes.

Hayes said townships do not have the authority to create their own e-bike regulations and must follow state and county laws. He said Sagamore Hills police have not had any reported e-bike accidents.

“When people have a concern they are welcome to call,” said Hayes. “If they think juveniles are riding too fast in a neighborhood, call and we’ll look into it.”

The police department shared state e-bike regulations online, noting that Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are legally permitted on streets, bike lanes and most paved multi-use paths. They are not allowed on highways and interstates.

Riders can ride on the sidewalk if the motor is disengaged. E-bikes are not permitted on paths primarily for hiking, equestrian use or mountain biking. Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited on shared use paths not adjacent to a roadway.

In the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed on the Towpath Trail and other locations where traditional bicycles are allowed, according to the National Park Service. The speed limit is 15 miles per hour for e-bikes on trails. Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited on any trail open to traditional bicycles.

The NPS website also notes, “E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where the use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.”

Hayes said Twinsburg passed e-bike regulations requiring all residents to register their e-bikes, and police are authorized to impound e-bikes for violations. Other municipalities like Akron also have local restrictions. Hayes said that before riding on metropark trails or the Ohio & Erie Canalway, bikers should check specific trail signage or Bike Cleveland guidelines.

While Ohio has set laws, bike riders should check local regulations depending on where they ride to ensure they are compliant.