Electric bikes are growing more popular as a pleasant way to explore the outdoors, an eco-friendly alternative to automobile vacations, and useful commute vehicles. The various electric bikes can also travel off-road, allowing you to go wherever you desire. Year by year, the e-bike market grew by more than 23% by 2020, and it is predicted to increase further over the following decade.
E-bike popularity has exceeded e-bike legislation in the United States, with several states catching up. Before you have fun on an e-bike, whether an expert e-biker or a rookie, make sure you grasp your state’s current legislation and policies and anyplace else you want to ride.
Electric bikes, sometimes referred to as e-bikes, are legal in the United States of America. An electric bicycle is described as “a two- or three-wheeled vehicle” with fully operable pedals. Congress has passed federal law when riding an electric motor vehicle with fewer than 750 watts (1 h.p.). This article discusses the regulations of e-bikes in the United States. Please read all the resolutions so you can avoid facing any problems while driving an electric bike.
Regulations for Electric Bikes in the United States
1. Product Scope
E-bikes, defined as bicycles in product scope 16 CFR Part 1512, as follows:
- A two-wheeled vehicle in which the back wheel is turned only by human power.
- A two- or three-wheeled pedal-powered, motorized (up to 750 watts), the single-horse-powered vehicle that does not exceed 20 mph when ridden by a person weighing no more than 170 pounds on level, paved roads.
2. Prerequisites for safety
Importers and manufacturers must guarantee that their e-bikes meet the safety criteria established in 16 CFR Part 1512, which include the following:
- Mechanical specifications
- Pedal specifications
- Tire specifications
- Front fork specifications
- Reflector specifications
3. UL Criteria
Among the many products Underwriter Laboratories (UL) develops and establishes are e-bikes. The standards are commonly regarded as de facto requirements for e-bikes and other equipment. UL is a recognized standards producer in the United States and Canada. It is in the importers’ best interests to comply with UL criteria because they could be held liable for any injuries or property damage brought on by dangerous e-bikes. UL criteria are largely voluntary.
4. Risks
Only some e-bike, including batteries and AC adapters, have been tested and meet the applicable UL criteria. On the other hand, many lithium batteries and other parts are out of compliance and may provide fire or electrical risk. This is also true for conformance to CPSC requirements and ASTM standards. Biktrix electric bikes are some of the best with fewer risks involved. So, that can be a good choice as well.
5. ASTM Standards
The mechanical construction parameters for e-bikes are not addressed by ASTM Standard UL 2849. In this case, e-bike importers can reference ASTM standards for product requirements and testing processes.
Read Also : 9 Must-Have Accessories for Trekking
Conclusion
The United States has passed several laws for e-bikes, including age restrictions, e-bike classifications, operating license requirements, and registration requirements. These are some of the most important regulations that must be kept in mind while purchasing an electric bike in the United States.
