E-Bikes and more...Micromobility

Here in Pennsylvania, we are seeing a lot of discussion and visibility of electric

scooters, skateboards, and E-Bikes (Electric Pedalcycle) especially on the streets of

Doylestown, PA. And most of the people we see on these “micromobility” vehicles are

operated by people to young to have a valid drivers license and drive a car. We often

see them without a helmet. Here’s a description of each vehicle:

What is an E-Bike?

These are operated by human power and can be assisted with an electric motor. The

E-Bike must be equipped with operable pedals and can exceed 20 mph when powered

by the motor. The E-Bike must weigh less than 100 pounds, and the motor must be less

than 750 watts. The E-Bike operator must be at least 16 years old.

What is an E- Scooter?

E-Scooter falls under the definition of a vehicle, and are not exempt from registration

and insurance, as set forth by the Commonwealth of PA. However, most electric

scooters do not have the necessary safety equipment (turn signals and mirrors) to

comply with inspection and registration requirements. This effectively makes the E-

scooter illegal to ride on state roads. Operators must be 16 years of age, and have a

valid drivers license.

What is a Motorized Pedalcycle and Scooter?

These are motor or electric powered cycles equipped with or without pedals. There are

no power limits, and they have a maximum design speed under 25 mph. Both the

motorized pedalcyle and the motor scooter require Commonwealth registration,

insurance, and annual inspection. Operators of these vehicles must be 16 years of age,

and have a valid drivers license.

What is an Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device (EPAMD)?

Think of hoverboards and segways. They are often confused with electric scooters.

This vehicle is a self-balancing, two wheel, non-tandem-wheeled device. Designed to

move only one person with electric power. These vehicles are not permitted on

highways, and children under 12 must wear a helmet.

And what about the newly designed golf cart or Neighborhood Electric Vehicles?

These mobility vehicles are growing in use in the suburbs, but they must be equipped

with safety controls; Brakes, speedometer, windshield wiper, horn, and a slow-moving

vehicle decal are required.

• Can only be driven on roadways with posted speed limits of 25 mph or less.
• May only cross roads (if more than two lanes), at intersections with traffic lights.
• Must be registered with the Commonwealth, insured, operated by a licensed driver.

Here is Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation fact sheet on Micromobility vehicles: