![]() ![]() ![]() Manufacturers and retailers are required to permanently affix a label (in a prominent location) printed in arial font and at least nine-point type that contains the classification number, top assisted speed, and motor wattage. What do e-bike manufacturers and retailers have to do because of this new law? Above 750 watts it is subject to more rules, including licensure and registration. If the wattage is higher than 750, it is no longer classified as a bike, but instead as a motor vehicle for the purpose of consumer protection. The maximum of 750 watts aligns with federal consumer protection regulations. Why restrict an e-bike’s power output to 750 watts? It’s important to note that like motor vehicles, most people biking are not typically traveling at top speed at all times.Studies suggest a difference of 0-5 mph between a traditional bike and e-bike. ![]() E-bikes typically resemble traditional bikes in function and average speed. The top assisted speeds of 20 mph and 28 mph can be deceiving.How fast do e-bikes travel compared to traditional bikes? Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited on sidewalks except when there is no other safe option for the bikes to travel (for example on a bridge without a trail or other safe place to bike).Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are treated as traditional bikes, which means they are allowed on sidewalks, subject to local laws that restrict bicycle riding on sidewalks.Exceptions may be made by a local authority or agency of this state that has jurisdiction over a particular trail. This provision in the legislation was amended to help improve interactions with other types of users on soft-surface single track trails. E-bikes cannot be ridden on a trail that is designated as non-motorized and that has a natural surface made by clearing and grading the native soil with no added surfacing materials.Class 3 e-bikes are allowed on infrastructure that is within or adjacent to a highway (street). There is an allowance for Class 3 bikes on sidewalks in cases where there is no other safe alternative. Class 3 e-bikes are restricted from shared-use pathways, as well as sidewalks.If your city doesn’t have specific laws on the books, the default is that Class 1 and 2 e-bikes can go everywhere traditional bikes can. Class 3: an e-bike where the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 mph also equipped with a speedometer.Class 2: an e-bike where the motor may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle (without needing to pedal) and is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.Class 1: an e-bike that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 mph.The new law also more clearly defines where e-bikes can and cannot be used on bikeways, trails and streets, as well as ensuring that jurisdictions and agencies have the tools for enforcement and management of e-bikes on our streets and trails.Ĭascade Bicycle Club published the following Frequently Asked Questions about Washington’s New E-bike Law:Įxpands the definition of bicycle to include e-bikes defines three distinct classes of e-bikes updates rules around use of e-bikesĪ bicycle with two or three wheels, a saddle, fully operative pedals for human propulsion, and an electric motor with fewer than 750 watts of power In early 2018 the Washington State Legislature passed SB 6434, establishing a legal framework consistent with national standards and giving the electric bike (e-bike) industry greater certainty in the Washington market. New E-bike law in Washington state takes effect on June 7, 2018. ![]()
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