• New bill seeks to reclassify many ebikes as 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 theWashington State Legislatureaims 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:
- Washington state lawmakers have advanced a bill that would tighten the definition of electric bicycles and reclassify many high‑powered two‑wheelers as motorcycles. The proposal would treat a vehicle as a motorcycle if it lacks functional pedals, has a motor over 750 watts, can be throttle‑powered above 20 mph, or provides pedal assistance above 28 mph. Reclassified e‑motorcycles would then require a driver’s license, registration, insurance, and be prohibited from riding on bike lanes or shared paths. The bill also earmarks nearly $100,000 for a study to help law enforcement and users distinguish between e‑bikes and e‑motorcycles. The sponsor, Rep. Janice Zahn, argues the change improves safety and regulatory clarity.
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