E-bike Buying Alert For Minnesota Shoppers This Season

The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota (BikeMN) is urging people who may buy e-bikes during gift-giving season to use caution, specifically when buying the vehicles online.

The BikeMN group released a statement in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Safety, Minnesota Safety Council, Minnesota Sheriff's Association and Minnesota Police Chief's Association warning consumers that products advertised as "e-bikes" may actually be illegal 'e-motos,' which are banned from Minnesota roadways, paths and trails.

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WHAT IS AN E-MOTO?

In order to be legal under Minnesota law, an 'e-bike' motor must be under 750 watts of power, must not exceed 28 miles per hour and must have fully functional pedals. Any vehicle that does not meet each of those three requirements is not a legal e-bike under Minnesota law.

In addition to the factors required to be considered an e-bike in Minnesota, there are a few disqualifying factors as well. Vehicles with motorcycle-style throttles, overpower motors and/or non-functional/decorative pedals all result in a vehicle not falling under the category of 'e-bike.'

HOW OLD TO RIDE AN E-BIKE IN MINNESOTA?

BikeMN also notes that not only do 'e-motos'  have age restrictions, so do 'e-bikes.' In fact, no one under age 15 is legally allowed to ride an e-bike in Minnesota.

BIKEMN:

"Unfortunately, many online retailers continue to sell e-motos and misrepresent them as e-bikes. These vehicles often cannot be legally registered or insured, and their use on public roads, sidewalks and trails may result in fines, confiscation or other penalties," said BikeMN in a statement. "More importantly, they pose serious safety hazards for riders, pedestrians and other road users."

HOW TO RIDE E-BIKES SAFELY

BikeMN also offers some basic safety tips in their release. They include wearing a helmet and reflective gear, following all traffic control signs/signals, using turn signals, using good judgement and always using a headlight with rear reflectors when riding in the dark.