Understanding E-Bikes in Ohio
Electric bicycles, commonly known as e-bikes, are becoming an increasingly popular way to travel, exercise, and enjoy the community. The Elida Police Department encourages riders and parents to understand how e-bikes are classified under Ohio law and to operate them safely and responsibly.
Ohio E-Bike Classifications
Class 1
Pedal-assist up to 20 mph
- Fully operable pedals
- Electric motor under 750 watts
- Motor assists only while the rider is pedaling
- Assistance stops at 20 mph
Class 2
Motor assistance up to 20 mph
- Fully operable pedals
- Electric motor under 750 watts
- May provide assistance whether or not the rider is pedaling
- Cannot provide assistance at 20 mph or above
Class 3
Pedal-assist up to 28 mph
- Fully operable pedals
- Electric motor under 750 watts
- Motor assists only while the rider is pedaling
- Assistance stops at 28 mph
- Must be equipped with a speedometer
Age & Helmet Requirements
Under Ohio law, a person must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike. A person under 16 may ride as a passenger on a Class 3 e-bike if the bicycle is designed to accommodate passengers.
Anyone operating or riding as a passenger on a Class 3 e-bike must wear an approved protective helmet.
Although this state requirement specifically applies to Class 3 e-bikes, the Elida Police Department encourages riders of all ages to wear a properly fitted helmet whenever riding an e-bike or bicycle.
E-Bike Identification
Manufacturers and distributors are required to place a permanent label on an electric bicycle identifying:
- The e-bike classification
- The bicycle’s top assisted speed
- The electric motor wattage
Riders should familiarize themselves with the classification of their e-bike before operating it on public streets or paths.
Where Can E-Bikes Be Ridden?
Ohio law generally permits Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on bicycle paths and shared-use paths unless the government agency responsible for the path has prohibited their use.
Class 3 e-bikes have additional restrictions on bicycle and shared-use paths. A Class 3 e-bike may be operated on such a path when the path is within or adjacent to a highway, or when the government agency responsible for the path has specifically authorized Class 3 e-bikes.
E-bikes generally may not be operated on trails intended primarily for mountain biking, hiking, equestrian use, or similar natural-surface recreational uses unless the government agency responsible for the trail specifically permits them.
Always obey posted signs and applicable state and local traffic regulations.
Follow the Rules of the Road
When operated on a roadway, e-bike riders are subject to traffic laws that apply to bicycles and electric bicycles. Ohio law generally requires riders to travel as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable while obeying applicable traffic rules and using due care.
Riders should:
- Obey traffic signals and stop signs
- Travel in the same direction as traffic
- Ride as near to the right side of the roadway as is practical and safe
- Use appropriate lighting and visibility equipment when riding after dark
- Stay alert for vehicles, pedestrians, driveways, and intersections
- Avoid distractions while riding
- Never carry more passengers than the bicycle is designed to accommodate
- Reduce speed when conditions or surrounding activity make it necessary
Parents & Young Riders
E-bikes can travel considerably faster than traditional bicycles, and some models may look similar even though their capabilities are very different.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to know what type of e-bike a child is operating, understand its maximum assisted speed, and make sure the rider has the experience and safety equipment necessary to operate it responsibly.
An electric bicycle that has been modified so that it no longer meets Ohio’s e-bike classifications may be treated differently under state law.
Ohio E-Bike Resources
For additional information, review the applicable sections of the Ohio Revised Code.
This page is provided as a general community safety resource. Riders are responsible for complying with all applicable Ohio laws, Village ordinances, and posted restrictions.