An e-bike is legally defined by three core requirements:
1. Fully operable pedals — The bike must have pedals that can propel it forward. This is the single most important distinction between an e-bike and a motorcycle or scooter.
2. Top speed under 20 mph (when powered solely by the motor) — This is the federal baseline. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are capped at 20 mph; Class 3 goes up to 28 mph but still qualifies as an e-bike.
3. Motor under 750W — The federal maximum motor power for an e-bike is 750 watts. Anything more powerful is classified as a motorcycle or moped.
Because e-bikes have functional pedals, they're treated as bicycles under the law in most U.S. states, which means:
• No license required
• No registration required
• No insurance required
This accessibility is what makes e-bikes so appealing for commuting and recreation.
Since 2014, 36 U.S. states have adopted a standardized three-class system that categorizes e-bikes by motor type and top speed:
Class 1: Pedal-Assist Only (20 mph)
Motor assistance activates only when pedaling. No throttle. Widest access to bike paths, trails, and multi-use paths. No age restrictions in most states. Ideal for recreational riders and trail enthusiasts.
Class 2: Throttle-Enabled (20 mph)
Motor can propel the bike without pedaling via throttle, OR you can pedal with assistance. Good for riders with physical limitations or who want convenience during errands. Similar trail access to Class 1 in most states.
Class 3: High-Speed Pedal-Assist (28 mph)
Pedal-assist only; no throttle allowed (as of 2025). Fastest class but often restricted to roads and streets—typically not allowed on dedicated bike paths. Requires a speedometer. Best for commuters who need faster speeds to keep up with traffic.
How to choose: Visit our vehicle classifier tool to determine which class fits your needs and what's legal in your area. Check your local trail access rules before buying—if trails are your priority, Class 1 gives maximum flexibility.
In the vast majority of U.S. states, you do not need a license, registration, or insurance to operate a Class 1, 2, or 3 e-bike. They are classified as bicycles, not motor vehicles.
However, important caveats:
Age minimums: Most states require Class 3 riders to be at least 16 years old. Some states (like Oregon and Washington as of 2025) have lowered this to 15. Check your local rules.
Helmet requirements: Some states mandate helmets for certain classes or ages. Always verify with your local authorities.
Labeling requirement: All three-class states require e-bikes to display a visible label showing the class, top speed, and motor wattage. This isn't "registration," just a manufacturer's label.
States without a classification system: A few states don't use the three-class model. In those jurisdictions, you may need licensing or registration. Always check your specific state and local regulations before riding.
The fundamental difference is functional pedals. An e-bike has working pedals that can propel it. An electric motorcycle has no pedals and is powered entirely by its motor.
This one feature creates major legal consequences:
E-Bikes: Classified as bicycles. No license required. No registration required. No insurance required (in most states). Access to bike paths and trails.
Electric Motorcycles: Classified as motor vehicles. Require a motorcycle license. Require state registration and title. Require insurance. Restricted to roads only—never allowed on bike paths.
Speed isn't what determines the category—it's the presence of pedals. An electric motorcycle typically starts at 40+ mph and can exceed 80 mph, which is why it requires licensing and insurance for safety.
Browse our electric motorcycle category to compare models with e-bikes.
E-bike range typically spans 25 to 70+ miles on a single charge, though the actual distance you achieve depends on several real-world variables.
Battery capacity (most important factor): Measured in Watt-hours (Wh):
• 250Wh battery = 15-30 miles
• 500Wh battery = 30-60 miles
• 1000Wh battery = 60+ miles
Larger capacity = longer range but also more weight and cost.
Other variables that affect range:
• Assistance level: Turbo mode drains the battery much faster than Eco mode
• Terrain: Hills consume significantly more battery than flat ground
• Rider weight: Heavier riders use more battery
• Weather: Cold temperatures reduce range; wind resistance matters
• Tire pressure: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce range
• Motor type: Hub motors are generally more efficient than mid-drive motors
Real-world estimates: Most manufacturers' range claims are optimistic. Plan for 60-80% of advertised range. Modern e-bikes feature displays that show real-time range estimates based on your current riding style and remaining battery capacity.
The key differences relate to pedals, design, and legal classification:
E-Bike: Has functional pedals. Motor up to 750W. Legal as a bicycle (no license required). Designed for cycling-style riding. Top speed 20-28 mph depending on class.
E-Scooter: Has a platform (no pedals). Usually under 500W motor. Often classified as a vehicle requiring registration and sometimes licensing. Speed typically 15-25 mph. Regulated separately—access varies wildly by city and state.
Moped: Has pedals or a platform, usually 50cc equivalent. Motor 1000-4000W. Requires registration, title, and often a moped or motorcycle license (varies by state). Top speed 28-40 mph. Legal status varies significantly by state and power level.
Electric Motorcycle: No pedals. 2000W+ motor. Always requires a motorcycle license, registration, title, and insurance. Top speed 40+ mph. Legal only on roads.
Explore our complete vehicle guide to browse all categories and find what's right for your area.