As E-Bikes and electric scooters continue to grow in popularity, the Barnesville Police Department is reminding residents that understanding the rules of the road is just as important as knowing how to operate the device.
E-Bikes and electric scooters can be a convenient and enjoyable way to travel, exercise and get around town. However, not every electric-powered bicycle or scooter is classified the same under Ohio law, and riders need to understand the requirements that apply to their particular device.
The Barnesville Police Department is encouraging residents and parents to “Ride Smart. Ride Safe. Share the Road.” before operating an E-Bike or electric scooter.
Know What You Are Riding
Under Ohio law, an electric bicycle must have fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. E-Bikes are divided into three classifications based on how the motor assists the rider.
- Class 1 E-Bike provides pedal assistance up to 20 miles per hour.
- Class 2 E-Bike can provide assistance through a throttle or pedal assistance up to 20 miles per hour.
- Class 3 E-Bike provides pedal assistance up to 28 miles per hour.
One important distinction for riders to remember is simple: No pedals means no riding as an E-Bike.
A device may look like an E-Bike or be marketed as one by a manufacturer or retailer, but that does not necessarily mean it meets Ohio’s legal definition of an electric bicycle. Riders and parents should check the device’s specifications, including its class, motor wattage, maximum assisted speed and whether it has fully operable pedals.
Class 3 E-Bikes Have an Age Requirement
The Police Department is also reminding residents that a person must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 E-Bike. Ohio law also requires protective helmets for Class 3 E-Bike operators and passengers. Parents should make sure they know what class of E-Bike their child is operating before allowing them to ride.
Understanding the Sidewalk Rule
One of the most important rules for Barnesville riders involves the use of E-Bikes on sidewalks. Under Ohio Revised Code 4511.711 and Village of Barnesville Ordinance 331.37, an electric bicycle may be operated on a sidewalk when the motor is not engaged, subject to applicable laws and regulations.
In other words:
The motor must be disengaged when riding an E-Bike on the sidewalk.
Riders should not use the motor while operating an E-Bike on a sidewalk.
Barnesville Ordinance 331.37, titled “Driving Upon Sidewalks, Street Lawns or Curbs,” prohibits a person from driving a vehicle on a sidewalk or sidewalk area, with an exception for a bicycle or electric bicycle when the motor is not engaged. The ordinance also prohibits driving a vehicle on a street lawn area or curb except where legally authorized. The ordinance includes a specific exception for law enforcement officers or other persons sworn to enforce criminal and traffic laws who are using an electric bicycle with the motor engaged while performing their official duties.
Electric Scooters Are Not E-Bikes
Electric scooters and other low-speed micromobility devices are also becoming increasingly common. These devices are not necessarily classified as E-Bikes and can be subject to different requirements. Riders should know what type of device they are operating and understand where that device can legally be used. Posted signs, local regulations and Ohio law should always be followed.
Safety Goes Beyond Knowing the Law
Following the law is only part of riding safely.
The Barnesville Police Department encourages riders to wear a properly fitted helmet, use appropriate lights and reflectors when riding at night, remain alert and avoid distractions. Riders should not use earbuds or headphones that prevent them from hearing their surroundings and should never operate an E-Bike or electric scooter while under the influence.
Riders should obey traffic signs and signals, use appropriate hand signals, yield to pedestrians, look before turning or crossing and ride in a predictable manner.
Motorists also have an important role in keeping riders safe. Drivers should remain alert for E-Bikes and electric scooters and provide adequate space when passing.
Parents Are Encouraged to Check the Details
The Police Department is particularly encouraging parents to take a few minutes to understand the device their child is riding.
Before allowing a child or teenager to operate an E-Bike or electric scooter, parents should know the device’s classification, motor wattage, maximum assisted speed, whether it has fully operable pedals, the age requirements and where the device can legally be operated.
Not every electric-powered bike is legally an E-Bike.
Knowing these details can help prevent a situation where a rider unknowingly operates a device in a manner that is not permitted under Ohio or local law.
Learn More About E-Bike and Electric Scooter Safety
The Village of Barnesville and Barnesville Police Department have developed additional educational resources to help residents better understand E-Bike classifications, electric scooters, sidewalk rules, safety recommendations and Village of Barnesville Ordinance 331.37.
Residents can find the information at: www.BarnesvilleOhio.com/ebikes
The Barnesville Police Department encourages everyone to take a few minutes to review the information and share it with family members, especially young riders.