Kaleidopete
Well-Known Member
Just got a LONG email from DMV. I asked where I can register my e-bike, since DMV Newton said they can't do it. This email doesn't address that question.
The new legislation regarding E-Bikes was proposed to amend various parts of the statutory law to outline clearer guidelines on requirements for operating certain electric bicycles, as well as ensure the safety of those operating the E-Bikes.
It is important to list the distinction between Class 1, 2, and 3 E-Bikes for clarity on how your bike may be classified:
Class 1 E-Bikes (Or Low-Speed Electric Bike): A low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
Class 2 E-Bikes (Or Low-Speed Electric Bike): A low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
Class 3 E-Bikes (Or Motorized Bicycle): A pedal-assist E-Bike that provides motor assistance only when the rider pedals, with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph and motor power limited to 750 watts. These bikes are defined by several key characteristics:
* Pedal-assist only; throttle use is prohibited.
* Motor assistance cuts off at 28 mph.
* Motor power capped at 750 watts (1 horsepower).
* Equipped with a speedometer.
* Riders must be 15 years old or older.
* Often restricted from bike paths and multi-use trails due to higher speeds.
Answers to common questions and concerns have been outlined below. Please keep in mind the new requirements will become effective July 2026.
1. "Do I need to register and insure all bikes?"
a. If the specification of the bikes fall within the 3 categories above, yes, the E-Bikes must be registered and insured.
2. "Am I no longer allowed to ride on mixed use rail trails?"
a. A low-speed electric bicycle or low-speed electric scooter may be operated on bicycle paths unless a local government entity prohibits the use on the path, under its jurisdiction. Typically, there is signage that will be posted on the path; however, it is best to check the government or organization's website dedicated to the trail. You may also contact the municipality/state entity that has jurisdiction over the trail.
3. "Do I have to buy and wear a motorcycle helmet?"
a. Helmet use is required for riders of Class 1 and Class 2 E-Bikes, and mandatory for all motorized bicycle riders, regardless of age. The helmet must be properly fitted and fastened and meet the standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z90.4 bicycle helmet); the Snell Memorial Foundation's 1990 Standard for Protective Headgear for Use in Bicycling; the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard or such other standard, as appropriate.
4. "My bikes have 750 watt motors, are they now considered mopeds not bikes?"
a. If the bike is limited to 750 watts, it is considered a Class 3 E-Bike. Although mopeds resemble bicycles, mopeds are heavier and handle differently. They usually require longer braking distances to stop, don't turn as quickly and are harder to pedal than bicycles.
5. "Am I no longer allowed to use my throttle?"
a. Throttle use is prohibited with a Class 3 E-Bike.
6. "Can E-Bikes be purchased online?"
a. The new laws do not restrict online purchases. An E-Bike purchased online, locally, or through a casual sale should have a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO); If an MCO, bill of sale, or formal proof of ownership is unavailable, the NJMVC may accept an affidavit from the current owner. The affidavit sets forth with reasonable specificity the acquisition of ownership of the E-Bike, together with any supporting documents, as proof of ownership of the E-Bike.
Additionally information pertaining to E-Bikes can be found at: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/vehicletopics/mopedatv.htm#moped. The NJMVC hopes this information provides clarity to the new changes in legislation. As a regulatory agency, the NJMVC can only act within the confines of the legislation that has been passed. To seek any changes to this new law, constituents are encouraged to reach out to their local legislators to express their concerns.
The NJMVC hopes you find this helpful.
Sincerely,
Madison
The new legislation regarding E-Bikes was proposed to amend various parts of the statutory law to outline clearer guidelines on requirements for operating certain electric bicycles, as well as ensure the safety of those operating the E-Bikes.
It is important to list the distinction between Class 1, 2, and 3 E-Bikes for clarity on how your bike may be classified:
Class 1 E-Bikes (Or Low-Speed Electric Bike): A low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
Class 2 E-Bikes (Or Low-Speed Electric Bike): A low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
Class 3 E-Bikes (Or Motorized Bicycle): A pedal-assist E-Bike that provides motor assistance only when the rider pedals, with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph and motor power limited to 750 watts. These bikes are defined by several key characteristics:
* Pedal-assist only; throttle use is prohibited.
* Motor assistance cuts off at 28 mph.
* Motor power capped at 750 watts (1 horsepower).
* Equipped with a speedometer.
* Riders must be 15 years old or older.
* Often restricted from bike paths and multi-use trails due to higher speeds.
Answers to common questions and concerns have been outlined below. Please keep in mind the new requirements will become effective July 2026.
1. "Do I need to register and insure all bikes?"
a. If the specification of the bikes fall within the 3 categories above, yes, the E-Bikes must be registered and insured.
2. "Am I no longer allowed to ride on mixed use rail trails?"
a. A low-speed electric bicycle or low-speed electric scooter may be operated on bicycle paths unless a local government entity prohibits the use on the path, under its jurisdiction. Typically, there is signage that will be posted on the path; however, it is best to check the government or organization's website dedicated to the trail. You may also contact the municipality/state entity that has jurisdiction over the trail.
3. "Do I have to buy and wear a motorcycle helmet?"
a. Helmet use is required for riders of Class 1 and Class 2 E-Bikes, and mandatory for all motorized bicycle riders, regardless of age. The helmet must be properly fitted and fastened and meet the standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI Z90.4 bicycle helmet); the Snell Memorial Foundation's 1990 Standard for Protective Headgear for Use in Bicycling; the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard or such other standard, as appropriate.
4. "My bikes have 750 watt motors, are they now considered mopeds not bikes?"
a. If the bike is limited to 750 watts, it is considered a Class 3 E-Bike. Although mopeds resemble bicycles, mopeds are heavier and handle differently. They usually require longer braking distances to stop, don't turn as quickly and are harder to pedal than bicycles.
5. "Am I no longer allowed to use my throttle?"
a. Throttle use is prohibited with a Class 3 E-Bike.
6. "Can E-Bikes be purchased online?"
a. The new laws do not restrict online purchases. An E-Bike purchased online, locally, or through a casual sale should have a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO); If an MCO, bill of sale, or formal proof of ownership is unavailable, the NJMVC may accept an affidavit from the current owner. The affidavit sets forth with reasonable specificity the acquisition of ownership of the E-Bike, together with any supporting documents, as proof of ownership of the E-Bike.
Additionally information pertaining to E-Bikes can be found at: https://www.nj.gov/mvc/vehicletopics/mopedatv.htm#moped. The NJMVC hopes this information provides clarity to the new changes in legislation. As a regulatory agency, the NJMVC can only act within the confines of the legislation that has been passed. To seek any changes to this new law, constituents are encouraged to reach out to their local legislators to express their concerns.
The NJMVC hopes you find this helpful.
Sincerely,
Madison
