• New bill seeks to reclassify e-bikes and e-motorcycles Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Reddit Flipboard Email Theelectric motorcycleindustry is in an exciting stage right now. • There are tons of new motorcycles launching each week across the globe, and with each launch, words like “bikes” and “motorcycles” are thrown around as loosely as possible. • A new bill advanced by theHouse Transportation Committeeaims to clarify that distinction once and for all. • This would do away with the fast-growing grey area in the two-wheeled world. • Washington state lawmakers are proposing updated definitions that would clearly separate low-speed pedal-assist bicycles from higher-powered electric machines that increasingly resemble small motorcycles in both performance and design. • I guess we’re at a stage where classifying one electric two-wheeler from another is paramount.
Article Summaries:
- A House Transportation Committee bill would tighten Washington’s definitions of electric two‑wheelers, distinguishing low‑speed pedal‑assist e‑bikes from higher‑powered e‑motorcycles. Under the proposal, a vehicle would be reclassified as a motorcycle if it has no pedals, a motor over 750 W, throttle‑only speeds above 20 mph, or pedal‑assisted speeds above 28 mph. Reclassified e‑motorcycles would then require a driver’s license, registration, insurance, lights, and could not be ridden on bike paths or shared trails. The measure aims to improve safety and regulatory clarity, and the state would spend about $100,000 to study enforcement and user education. The bill is sponsored by Janice Zahn.
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