Electronic Bikes (E-bikes)

It is important to know the laws in Virginia on e-bikes and practice safe e-cycling. 

Virginia divides e-bikes into three classes:

Class 1: Pedal-assist only, motor assists up to 20 mph. Allowed on streets, bike lanes, and shared paths.

Class 2: Throttle-assist available, motor assists up to 20 mph. Similar access as Class 1 but throttle use may be locally restricted.

Class 3: Pedal-assist only, motor assists up to 28 mph. Riders must be 14 or older, and helmets are mandatory for operators and passengers.

All classes must have motors no greater than 750 watts and comply with safety standards.

Things to know:

• Be a responsible e-cyclist. Obey all traffic control devices and use proper hand signals.
• Always ride with the flow of traffic.
• Dress safely. Wear a helmet, wear bright colored clothing. At night, Wear reflective clothing .
• Ride defensively. Anticipate the actions of other road users and watch for road hazards.
• Maximize your visibility at night and apply reflective tape to your bicycle.
• All bikes must be a bicycle that can move under pedal power. 
• Class 3 e-bikes must be equipped with a speedometer.
• Modifying an e-bike to change its speed capability without updating the label is prohibited. “Unlocking” an e-bike to go over 28mph makes it a motorcycle.
• E-bikes must comply with equipment and manufacturing requirements set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
• E-bikes are prohibited on natural surface trails designated for non-motorized use.
• E-bikes are permitted on all roadways and bike paths where traditional bicycles are allowed, including highways, shoulders, and shared-use paths, unless local regulations restrict access. Always check these regulations before you ride.
• Class 3 e-bikes may face additional restrictions and must be operated with helmets.
• Buyer beware.  Most e-bikes use lithium-ion batteries which can be hazardous if they are poorly made, altered, or charged outside of manufactures recommendations.