An Overview of eBikes in Missouri
As technology advances, so too do the means by which we get around. One development that has gained significant popularity over the past decade is the invention of the eBike. Short for electric bicycle, an eBike is essentially a typical human-operated bike that has an additional battery-powered energy system. In short, the motor provides assistance while cycling, such as by powering the wheels or the pedals, with the rider’s signature movements providing steering and direction. That being said, it is important to note that not every type of eBike is considered equipped with a "motor." Instead, to count as an eBike, the bike’s motor must be proportional to the cyclist’s capabilities. As a result, eBikes are typically divided into three categories: pedelecs (also referred to as class one and two) , which refers to pedal-assist bikes; and throttle-assisted two-wheeled motor vehicles (often called power-on-demand devices), which refers to ones that allow the user to pick an electric motor instead of squeezing the pedals in order to activate the motor. As eBikes have continued to grow in popularity throughout Missouri and the rest of the U.S., so too have misconceptions regarding their uses and special requirements. It’s important for all cyclists to understand the state’s regulations and how those may differ from those for a traditional bike. Additionally, instead of relying on a traditional vehicle or other modes of transport, many cyclists can reap the benefits of riding an eBike, which include: getting light to moderate exercise; reducing fuel emissions; lacking the need for gas or regular maintenance; and never getting stuck in traffic.
Missouri’s Definition of an eBike
Missouri Law defines several different types of eBikes which can be confusing for trail & road cyclists. The state legislature defines a class 1, class 2 and class 3 electric bike as "A bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of twenty-two miles per hour or more." This definition rules out the "Pedelec", a bicycle which is equipped with an electric motor which ceases assisting the rider at speeds above 15.5 miles per hour in the State of Missouri. (The Pedelec is not popular in the United States, particularly with road cyclists, due to the inherent disadvantages of additional weight and unnecessary electrical components which detract from a simple, effective and efficient bicycle design.) In Missouri, an eBike is not considered a motorized vehicle unless it "has full functional electrical components, including the headlight, taillight, reflectors, brake light and horn or bell." It may not have more than 750 watts (one horsepower) and "electrically assists only while the operator is pedaling, and it ceases to assist the operator when he has applied the brakes; or when he has ceased pedaling; or when he reaches fifteen and one half miles per hour or more."
Rules Surrounding eBike Riding On Missouri Roads
For the most part, all classes of eBikes are permitted to be used both on roads and bike paths in Missouri. This is the case as long as the operators and owners of these bikes adhere to certain guidelines and regulations—primarily addressing the type of eBike being used and the location in which it is being operated.
We’ve already touched on this topic; the law dictates that Class 1 bikes, which provide motorized assistance only while pedaling, can be operated anywhere in the state. Class 2 bikes, featuring pedals that can be operated without the aid of a motor, can be used on the same roads, bike paths and trails as Class 1 eBikes. The restrictions begin with Class 3 bikes, which can’t be used on bike paths unless there is a local ordinance permitting the use of these eBikes on the path. If there is no law such as this on the books, Class 3 bikes can be used on traditional roads, but not on bike paths. Some Missouri ordinances may restrict the use of eBikes on bike paths, something to keep in mind if you’re operating one of the two higher classes in these areas. When riding an eBike on the roads in Missouri, it’s necessary to adhere to any speed limits—however, this is not something you’re likely to have to think about while using a bike path, given that speed limits are only imposed on roadways. There are no helmet requirements for operators of eBikes in Missouri, so riders don’t have to worry about wearing a helmet to stay in compliance with the law—or to protect themselves in the event of a crash.
eBike Registration and Licensing
When it comes to the registration and licensing of bikes, Missouri makes a clear distinction between traditional bicycles, eBikes, and motor vehicles. For starters, traditional bicycles are not required to be registered or licensed in Missouri. This lack of documentation requirement retains its straightforwardness with the addition of eBikes. Just like traditional bicycles, eBikes do not need to be registered, and no special license is required to operate them.
However, the same cannot be said for motor vehicles. Motor vehicles must be registered and bear an identification number issued by the Missouri Department of Revenue. Applicants must pay a standard fee, and the registration must be renewed every year. Motor vehicle registrants also benefit from the ability to pay their registration fees online, by mail, or by visiting a local Department of Revenue office.
In contrast, while bicycles and eBikes do not need any sort of identification or registration number, some Missouri cities have ordinances in place that require any bicycles rented out to be affixed with identification numbers. This type of documentation requirement applies when a bicycle business rents out bicycles to tourists.
Minimum Age and Safety Requirements
The state of Missouri has very specific regulations regarding the use of eBikes. These laws are set forth in Chapter 307 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, which pertains to Motorboats and Vessels. Under the law, it is illegal for any person under 18 years of age to operate an eBike without protective headgear. In Missouri, riders under the age of 16 must wear a protective helmet while riding an eBike. If you are 16 to 18, the law requires you to wear a helmet unless you have received a safety course completion certificate issued by the Missouri State Highway Patrol – a certification which is valid for five years – or you are under supervision in a driver’s education course at a Missouri public school or state-approved private school . Just like bicycle helmets, there are many eBike helmets on the market and each have their own pros and cons. Some important things to look for in a safe helmet include light weight, comfortable fit and ventilation.
One of the biggest concerns when it comes to underage illegal eBike riding is the lack of driving experience and awareness of the rider. Typically a rider has to be at least 15 or 16, depending on some states, to have a license and practice driving on the road. This is an oversight as many eBikes are incredibly fast. The sheer fact that most eBike manufacturers set 15 or 16 as the minimum age for a reason shows that the current law has its flaws. Would-be eBikers should understand their limits before getting on the road.
A Comparison between Missouri eBike Laws with Other States
When we consider the comparison of Missouri’s eBike laws to other states, it is important to note the areas in which Missouri is in line with other states and those in which our state law differs. For example, while Missouri law does not categorize eBikes by class, this is not the case in neighboring Iowa and Nebraska. Both Iowa and Nebraska have categorized eBikes into three classes to distinguish the type of motor assistance provided and the maximum speed of the bikes. In Iowa, the categories of eBikes include: Nebraska’s eBike laws are similar to those in Iowa with the following classifications: Iowa law is more permissive than Missouri law in that they have no restrictions on where people can ride their eBikes, and eBikes can be ridden on public roads, but not on sidewalks. In Nebraska, eBikes cannot be ridden in bike lane or sidewalk if the bike lane is adjacent to a roadway. There is an exception to this rule in that cities with populations greater than 5,000 may permit the riding of eBikes on the sidewalk. As a result, it is important for eBikers to be familiar with the local ordinances for eBikes in whatever jurisdiction they may be riding. Iowa law authorizes local jurisdictions to regulate the use of eBikes by prohibiting the class of eBikes that exceed 20 miles per hour on paved trails, including the use of pedal-assist only models. Iowa law also allows local jurisdictions to limit the number and use of eBikes and classify and define specific areas where eBikes may or may not be used. Nebraska law authorizes local jurisdictions to limit the use of pushbutton-controlled eBikes and those eBikes that exceed 20 miles per hour. Missouri, and most other states, defer to local jurisdictions in determining how and where to regulate eBikes. For instance, Jefferson City has a city ordinance that prohibits the riding of eBikes on trails, sidewalks, and park pathways, except where authorized by signage. The City of Columbia restricts the operation of electric bicycles and electric scooters on certain sidewalks and pedestrian pathways, and they may be operated only on streets or bicycle paths. These are just a few examples of how Missouri eBike laws compare to those throughout the Midwest. When planning a bike trip across state lines, eBikers should be prepared to consult the eBike laws in their destination.
Future of Missouri eBike Laws
There is little doubt that as the popularity of eBikes have increased there will be increased legislative and regulatory scrutiny of their impact on public infrastructure and safety. Some have called for new eBike speed restrictions, licensing requirements, rider insurance, and more. Others resist these calls as an overreaction not supported by data. Increased attention to safety, speed and associated requirements may lead to the conclusion that they should be considered in the context of existing bicycle laws or even a comprehensive rewrite of all of the laws regulating bicycles and eBikes. Ahead of that, we might even see some regulatory efforts to require eBike manufacturers to collect information on the age of the purchaser of the eBike and require a sticker to be placed somewhere conspicuous on the eBike to inform users how to operate the eBike safely .
At the same time, as more eBikes and other types of eMobility devices enter cities, there is likely a move to expand opportunities for their use. Cities across the country are already investing in new infrastructure to accommodate eMobility devices, and in particular eBikes. As they come to recognize that eMobility is a movement and not simply a passing fad, we can expect that growth in ridership will put pressure on our existing infrastructure and regulatory framework. In other words, we can expect to see the adoption of new regulations expanding the types of devices that may be offered for rent under existing city and private programs, increased opportunities for existing and new eMobility companies to lease sidewalk space, and perhaps even the division of sidewalks into separate lanes for pedestrians, bicycles and eMobility devices.