Electric-assist bicycles, or e-bikes, have become increasingly popular across Massachusetts in recent years, especially with young riders. With their rising popularity, it is important for all riders to understand that e-bikes are subject to specific rules under Massachusetts law. Riders must follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles and traditional bicycles, including obeying traffic signals, yielding to pedestrians, and riding safely and predictably.
Laws and Regulations
The City of Medford has not adopted e-bike ordinances or bylaws. Users are required to follow general bicycle and e-bike laws enacted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Under G.L. c. 85, § 11B3/4, Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are treated the same as pedal-powered bicycles. Massachusetts Laws about Bicycles.
E-Bikes May Be Operated
On public roadways, in designated bike lanes and on shared-use or multi-use paved trails, unless restricted by local regulation.
E-Bike operation is Prohibited
On sidewalks, unless expressly permitted by local ordinance (G.L. c. 85, § 11B) and on natural-surface or mountain bike trails, unless signage or local rules allow it.
Traffic Laws
Riders must follow traffic laws as motor vehicles & traditional bicycles, including obeying traffic signals, yielding to pedestrians, and riding safely and predictably.
Reckless Operation
Operators who jeopardize the lives and safety of the public may be citied for Operating to Endanger Under M.G.L. c. 85, § 11b. Violators under 18 may have their bike impounded.
RIDING OVER 20MPH?
You’re riding a MOTORIZED BIKE !
You must have a driver’s license, registration and moped license plate.
Any e-bike exceeding the power or speed thresholds of Class 1 or 2 or has been modified is considered a “motorized bicycle” under M.G.L. c. 90, § 1. Violators will be towed and face criminal charges.
E-Bike Classifications Under Massachusetts Law
CLASS 1
A low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 miles per hour.
CLASS 2
A low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a throttle-actuated motor that can propel the bicycle without pedaling but ceases to provide assistance at 20 miles per hour.
MOTORIZED BIKE
The law does not define Class 3 e-bikes, a term commonly used in other jurisdictions and the bicycle industry to refer to pedal-assist e-bikes that operate up to 28 mph with a speedometer. Because Massachusetts does not codify Class 3, any e-bike exceeding the power or speed thresholds of Class 1 or 2 may instead be considered a “motorized bicycle” under G.L. c. 90, § 1, subject to registration, license, and helmet requirements.
Best Practices for E-Bike Riders
For anyone riding on our roads and paths, please be careful and respectful at all times.
Electric Scooters (E-Scooters)
Electric scooters are not considered e-bikes. While there are some low-speed toy versions marketed for children, all motorized e-scooters fall under the definition of motorized scooters in Massachusetts General Law c.90, §1. A motorized scooter is defined as any 2 wheeled tandem or 3 wheeled device, that has handlebars, designed to be stood or sat upon by the operator, powered by an electric or gas powered motor that is capable of propelling the device with or without human propulsion. This definition excludes motorcycles, electric bicycles, motorized bicycles, and three-wheeled motorized wheelchairs.
Scooters Laws and Regulations
Users are required to follow general scooter laws enacted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Under G.L. c. 90, § 1E.
- Riders must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit.
- Helmets are required.
- Maximum speed is 20 mph.
- No passengers allowed.
- Not permitted after sunset or before sunrise.
- Must keep to the right side of the road whenever possible.
- Not allowed to be operated on sidewalks.