The Rulebook · draft under verification
E-bike law in United States (Federal).
The rules at a glance
- Max motor power
- 750 W
- Top assisted speed
- 20 mph
- Minimum age
- None statewide
- Helmet
- Set by each state
- Licence required
- No
- Registration required
- No
The three classes
| Class | Assist | Top speed | Throttle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Pedal-assist | 20 mph | No |
| Class 2 | Throttle + assist | 20 mph | Yes |
| Class 3 | Pedal-assist | 28 mph | No |
What the statute actually says
Federal law (Consumer Product Safety Act, 15 U.S.C. § 2085) defines a 'low-speed electric bicycle' as a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and a motor under 750 W that cannot propel it faster than 20 mph on motor power alone. Such a bike is regulated as a consumer product — a bicycle — not a motor vehicle, so no federal licence, registration or insurance applies. The three-class system (Class 1/2/3 at 20/20/28 mph) is set by STATE law; most states have adopted it, but age, helmet, trail and local rules vary by state and municipality. Ported from Redtail eBikes' rulebook research (verified 2026-07-03); re-verify against the primary source before relying on it.
Draft summary under verification — not legal
advice. Summaries were ported from Redtail eBikes' rulebook research (pulled 2026-07-03) and are being
re-verified against the official sources linked above. State law changes; confirm before you rely on it.