North Reading Police would like to provide some important details for parents considering purchasing an e-bike or e-dirt bike this holiday season.
E-bikes, e-scooters, bicycles and e-dirt bikes are becoming increasingly popular among juveniles across the state. These electric devices, while seemingly fun, can be dangerous. Due to Daylight Saving Time, it is getting darker earlier and riders should remember to wear reflective and light colored clothing when riding at night.
North Reading Police would like to share the following safety tips and laws regarding e-bikes, e-scooters, bicycles, and traffic safety.
- An e-bike is defined as a bicycle or tricycle that is equipped with fully operational pedals and an electric motor of 750 watts or less. The motor can only power the e-bike up to 20 miles per hour. More powerful motorized bikes require registration and a driver’s license or learner’s permit.
- Although most e-bikes and e-scooters are equipped to travel no faster than 20 mph, which is the legal limit for bikes capable of providing motor assistance, this setting can sometimes be overridden. Please ensure your child’s e-bikes have tamper-proof speed limits, and if they don’t, be sure you are regularly testing the bike to make sure it cannot go faster than 20 mph. This is also a good time to check the brakes and lights.
- Always wear a helmet, no matter what. All riders under 16 are required by law to wear a properly fitted helmet.
- Use front and rear lights even during the day and wear bright or reflective clothing.
- E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks, highways, or natural trails that are meant for non-motorized traffic. Operate e-bikes only on roads and designated bike lanes, following the same rules of the road as bicycles.
- Ride in the same direction as traffic, single file, on the right side of the road.
- Always obey stop signs, red lights and lane markings.
- The same as when you ride a regular bicycle, use hand signals when turning and make eye contact with drivers whenever possible. Aside from using hand signals, keep both hands on the handlebars.
- Come to a complete stop before crossing any street and walk your bike across the road.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions while riding.
- E-dirt bikes are electric, pedal-less bikes that are classified under Massachusetts law as Recreational Vehicles. They are not legal for use on public ways, and they are prohibited from operating on any public property not for recreational vehicle use.
- E-dirt bike riders must wear a DOT-approved helmet.
- Operators of e-dirt bikes under age 18 must complete a state-approved safety course, and other age-related restrictions apply.
Riders should adhere to all rules of the road, always wear a helmet, and follow posted traffic signage. North Reading Police reminds vehicle drivers to remain vigilant while travelling, especially when driving at night.
For more information about e-bikes and bicycle safety, click here.
