By Richard Garrett, president
Florida Bicycle Association
Electric bicycles have become an important and positive part of our transportation landscape. They help people ride farther, replace short car trips, and make cycling accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
Unfortunately, a growing number of high-powered electric vehicles are being mislabeled and marketed as “e-bikes,” creating safety risks — especially for children — and a backlash against legitimate cyclists.
It’s time to draw a clear line.
What is an e-bike?
Under widely accepted laws and regulations in Florida and across the United States, true e- bikes fall into three classes:
• Class 1 — Pedal-assist only, with assistance up to 20 mph.
• Class 2 — Throttle-enabled, but limited to 20 mph.
• Class 3 — Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph.
All three classes are limited to 750 watts (1 horsepower) and are designed to function like bicycles. These are e-bikes.
What is an ‘e-moto’?
If a vehicle exceeds 750 watts, can reach speeds above 28 mph, operates primarily on a throttle, or resembles a motorcycle or dirt bike, it is not an e-bike. It is an electric motorcycle — often called an e-moto.
Why this matters for parents
These high-powered electric motorcycles are increasingly being purchased for underage riders, creating serious risks. They accelerate quickly, reach motorcycle-level speeds, may require licensing and registration, and are often illegally ridden on streets, sidewalks and bike paths.
Helmets are non-negotiable
A helmet does not make a 40-mph electric motorcycle safe for a child. Whether one is riding a traditional bike or a legal e-bike, helmets should always be worn — especially by children and teens. Speed increases risk, and head injuries are the leading cause of serious cycling trauma.
Protecting our children and our community
E-bikes are not the problem. Electric motorcycles marketed as e-bikes are. Parents deserve clear information, communities deserve safe public spaces, and cyclists deserve not to be blamed for machines that were never bicycles.
If it goes faster than 28 mph or exceeds 750 watts, it is not an e-bike. It is an electric motorcycle — and it should be treated as one.