Electric Bicycles

As the use of electric bicycles (e-bikes) continues to rise across Massachusetts, many local officials and residents have questions about how they are regulated. This advisory summarizes the legal status of e-bikes in Massachusetts, including how they are classified, where they can be operated, and what authority municipalities have to regulate them.

Overview

Massachusetts adopted a legal framework for e-bikes through the 2022 Transportation Bond Bill, effective November 8, 2022. Key provisions are contained in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 and Chapter 85, which define e-bike classes and set statewide rules for use, safety, and local regulation.

E-Bike Classifications

Massachusetts recognizes two classes of low-speed electric bicycles:

• Class 1 e-bike: An electric bicycle with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and stops providing assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 miles per hour.

• Class 2 e-bike: An electric bicycle with a throttle-actuated motor that can propel the bicycle without pedaling but stops providing assistance at 20 miles per hour.

Massachusetts law does not define “Class 3” e-bikes, a term commonly used elsewhere for pedal-assist e-bikes that can operate up to 28 mph with a speedometer. Any e-bike exceeding the power or speed limits for Class 1 or Class 2 may be considered a motorized bicycle under state law and therefore subject to registration, licensing, and helmet requirements.

Licensing, Registration, and Helmet Requirements

Requirements depend on the type of device and how fast it can travel:

• Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes (up to 20 mph assisted speed): No driver's license required, no vehicle registration required, helmets required for riders under age 17.

• Devices that exceed Class 1 or Class 2 limits (treated as motorized bicycles): Driver's license required, registration required, helmets required for all riders.

Where E-Bikes May Be Operated

Under Massachusetts law, Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are generally treated the same as pedal-powered bicycles. They may be operated:

• On public roadways.

• In designated bike lanes.

• On shared-use or multi-use paved trails, unless restricted by local regulation.

E-bike operation is prohibited:

• On sidewalks, unless expressly allowed by local ordinance.

• On natural-surface or mountain bike trails, unless posted signage or local rules permit e-bike use.

Municipal Authority to Regulate E-Bike Use

In most situations, e-bike riders must be given the same rights and responsibilities as bicycle riders. Municipalities may not prohibit or restrict Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes on public roadways or marked bike lanes.

Cities and towns may regulate e-bike use on bike paths and shared-use trails, but only if they follow a specific legal process:

• Provide public notice and hold a public hearing.

• Adopt ordinances or regulations through the appropriate legislative body, such as a select board or city council.

• Post signage clearly communicating any restrictions or speed limits.

On trails designated for non-motorized traffic with natural surfaces, e-bikes are not allowed unless a municipality or agency adopts regulations permitting and governing their use after public notice and a public hearing. Any local restriction that does not follow this process is not enforceable.

Additional Enforcement Considerations

• E-bikes must have a permanent manufacturer label showing their class, motor wattage, and top assisted speed.

• If an e-bike has been modified to exceed either 750 watts or a 20 mph assisted speed, it may no longer qualify as Class 1 or Class 2 and can be treated as a motorized bicycle.

• Local police departments do not have authority to require licensing or registration for Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes because they are not motor vehicles under Massachusetts law.