Chief's Corner: E-Bike Rules

Using an electric bicycle is a great way to get around, but safety comes first. Whether you’re riding on the street, in a bike lane, or on the sidewalk, knowing the rules helps protect you and those around you.

Electric bicycles (“e-bikes”) are defined by Florida State Statute 316.003(23) as having two or three wheels, fully operable pedals, a seat or saddle, and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.

E-bikes fall into three classifications:

• Class 1: E-bike with pedal assistance up to 20 mph.
• Class 2: Throttle-assisted or pedal-assisted e-bike with speeds up to 20 mph.
• Class 3: E-bike with pedal assistance up to 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes may only be operated by persons 16 years of age or older on roads, bike lanes/paths, or shared-use trails. Riders of Class 3 e-bikes must use bike lanes or paths when available.

Devices that do not meet the legal criteria for e-bikes include:

• Modified e-bikes with removed pedals, higher attainable speeds, or increase motor wattage.
• Converted or custom-built bikes that exceed legal limits.
• Other motorized or electric vehicles, such as mopeds, motorized scooters, or dirt bikes.

E-bikes are subject to speed limits on all roadways, sidewalks, and trails, just like traditional bicycles and motor vehicles. Electric bikes with more than 750 watts are not allowed on sidewalks, bike paths/lanes, or shared pathways. Under the current City of Bradenton ordinance, micromobility devices, bicycles, and scooters may not exceed 15 mph on any sidewalk and 10 mph on the Riverwalk.