On October 1st, Senate President Nicholas Scutari released a press statement aimed at defining e-bikes more clearly within the existing class system. This statement proposed a Class 3 for standard e-bikes and introduced a new Class 4 specifically for electric motorcycles (e-motos). Despite some technical issues—like a redefinition of certain Class 2 bicycles—the intent seemed to be to integrate e-bikes under the recognized standards.
However, a significant shift occurred on November 6th when the Senate President introduced a new, very different bill. This proposed legislation (S4834) would nullify the existing e-bike Class system entirely. The bill seeks to define all e-bikes as motorized bicycles, which would require riders to obtain licensing and insurance. The proposed changes in the vehicle would not affect e-scooters. This move is clearly a reaction to the hard line of some municipalities that have passed ordinances and lump micro-mobility with e-motos.
Consequences of Eliminating Low-Speed E-Bikes
- Loss of Bike Share Programs: The removal of low-speed e-bikes could jeopardize bike-sharing services.
- Impact on Older Riders: Many elderly individuals rely on e-bikes as mobility aids, and this change could limit their options.
- Increased Costs for Cargo Bike Families: Families using cargo e-bikes may face higher costs or be forced to abandon their e-bikes entirely.
- Economic Hardship for E-Bike Workers: Those who depend on e-bikes for their livelihoods will likely experience severe disruptions.
- Increased Risk of Traffic Stops: Riding an e-bike could lead to unjust traffic stops or harassment, particularly from ICE.
- Economic Effects on Local Communities: The e-bike restrictions could negatively affect regional trails and shore communities that benefit from e-bike tourism. Citing out-of-state tourists for riding an e-bike without a license sounds like a losing policy.
- Further hampers the implementation of bike infrastructure – Fewer bicyclists means less political will to install protected bike lane and bike parking.
- Increases our carbon footprint: People will revert to driving to complete short trips.
Where does the Bicycle Coalition’s stand on E-bike restrictions
Vehicle-neutral laws with speed limits would be easier to administer and regulate compared to class-based bans on shared-use paths
New e-bike laws should target the fast e-motos, not low-powered e-bikes, which travel at around the same speed as bicycles but require less exertion.
Differentiating E-Bikes from E-Motos
There is growing concern about reckless riding among teenagers and young adults on powerful e-motos, leading to a conflation of e-bikes with e-motos due to a lack of clear information. For a deeper understanding of electric assist vehicles, check the NJ Micromobility Guide.
Comparison of E-Bike Classes
| Feature | E-Bike (Class 1 or 2) | Class 3 E-Bike | E-Moto (Electric Motorcycle) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Assisted Speed | 20 mph or less | 28 mph | 30-60 mph (some are highway legal) |
| Pedal Requirement | Class 1: pedal-assist only; Class 2: throttle and pedal assist* | Pedal-assist (throttle max 20 mph) | No pedaling required (some without workable pedals) |
| Motor Power | 250 – 750 watts | 750 watts | >1,000 watts |
| Licensing/Insurance | None (classified as bicycle) | Motorized Bicycle/Moped Moped or standard driver’s license needed Liability insurance required. Minimum age: 15 | Motorcycle or ATV/Dirt Bike |
| Examples | Tern GSD, Brompton Electric C, Aventon Soltera | Lectric XP4 | Surron Light Bee L1E, Jasion Retrovolt 920 |
* Some conversion kits only include a throttle assist that complements manual pedaling.
Recommendations for the State Legislature
Enforce Existing Laws: The MVC has already provided guidance regarding out-of-class vehicle issues.
Ban Easily Modified Vehicles: It’s crucial to prohibit modifications to e-bikes that can alter their class and require sellers to take responsibility for ensuring compliance.
Establish Age Requirements: Set minimum age restrictions for e-bikes, similar to the requirement for mopeds, which currently allows riders as young as 15 to drive a Class 3 e-bike.
Develop a Safety Curriculum: Implement an e-mobility and bicycle safety education program for middle and high school students.
Review Registration Requirements for Class 3 E-Bikes: The current registration process for Class 3 ebikes at the MVC is non-functioning, with confirmed cases of MVC turning e-bike owners away. Either create an easy process to make it work, or drop the requirement altogether. NJ is the only state in nation that exclusively requires Class 3 bicycles to be registered as mopeds.
Actions for Counties and Municipalities
Enforce Existing Rules: Many municipalities have restrictions on riding bicycles on sidewalks. It’s vital to recognize that Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes can look alike, so clear speed regulations on shared paths are necessary.
Adopt Trail Rules and Speed Limits: Regulations such as a 15 mph speed limit on shared-use paths can help ensure safety. Montgomery County, has set a model with policies and penalties targeting reckless behavior on shared-use paths.
Safe streets are a right, not a privilege. We’re creating a stronger community WITH YOU! Investing in our year-round advocacy and education work makes Greater Philadelphia a safer and more fun place to ride—right now, the Coalition is asking 750 folks to join or renew their support for another year to continue that work. More info here.