Know the difference: E-moto vs. E-bike
Not every “electric bike” you see for sale is truly a legal e-bike. Some are actually electric motorcycles (e-motos), which are not allowed to be ridden on bike paths, streets, bike lanes, sidewalks or any public spaces.
If an “e-bike” can go over 20 mph without pedaling, then it’s not an e-bike. It’s an e-moto and illegal to ride everywhere in Eugene except private property. This is true even if it was sold as an e-bike.
How to tell the difference:
- Legal e-bikes must have working pedals.
- Legal e-bikes cannot exceed 20 mph without pedaling (by using a throttle).
- Some legal e-bikes can reach 28 mph, but only by pedaling and having the motor help.
- Under Oregon law, legal e-bikes are bicycles, not motor vehicles.
- E-motos can exceed 20 mph without pedaling (using a throttle) and are often capable of reaching speeds between 30 and 70 mph or higher.
- E-motos may have functional pedals, fake pedals, or pegs instead of pedals.
- Under Oregon law, e-motos are not bicycles, they are motor vehicles.
If you are thinking about buying yourself or a family member an e-bike, don’t get fooled by online retailers selling over-powered and dangerous unclassified vehicles as e-bikes. Head to the E-Bike Expo on June 20 instead to try out a variety of legal and transparently sold bicycles from retailers who have your best interest in mind. Or visit a local bike shop and tell them you want a legal e-bike that can be ridden on our paths and streets.
The speed limit on Eugene’s paths is 12 mph when others are present and 20 mph if you’re alone. No exceptions. If you see electric motorcycles, other overpowered vehicles, speeding or reckless riding on the paths, please report them to MyPDConnect. For more information, visit eugene-or.gov/BikeLaws.