Linn Co. Sheriff's Office release - It seems like every other bike out there these days has a motor on it! Here’s a quick rundown to help everyone stay safe and stay legal. Oregon has three classes of e-bikes: Class 1: Pedal-assist up to 20 mph. The motor helps you pedal but doesn’t do the work for you. Class 2: Includes a throttle and can provide motor assistance up to 20 mph. Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph and must have a speedometer. If they meet Oregon’s legal definition of an electric-assisted bicycle, e-bikes are treated as bicycles under Oregon law. That generally means no driver’s license, registration, or insurance is required. E-bikes can be used in bike lanes and on permitted bike paths, but they cannot be ridden on sidewalks in Oregon. Local rules for individual cities may also apply, so be sure to check before heading out! Not everything with two wheels and a motor is an e-bike! Pocket bikes, pit bikes, mini motorcycles, mini choppers, and other motorized bikes that don’t meet Oregon’s definition of an electric-assisted bicycle are a different story. Just because something is advertised or sold as an “e-bike” doesn’t automatically make it street legal. Many of these vehicles cannot legally be operated on public roads and are intended for off-road use. Always check the rules for the specific vehicle. Here’s an important distinction: Electric bikes with pedals that meet Oregon’s definition of an e-bike are not considered motor vehicles under Oregon’s Vehicle Code. The concern we’re addressing involves motorized vehicles like pit bikes and mini motorcycles without pedals. These vehicles may be classified as motor vehicles and are subject to different requirements. When these vehicles are operated on public roads by someone who isn’t legally qualified to drive a motor vehicle, the rider can face citations for violations such as driving without a license, registration, or insurance, when required. Parents may also face consequences for allowing an unqualified driver to operate a motor vehicle. This is an important distinction for parents to understand. Know the age requirements: Oregon generally requires riders to be at least 16 years old to operate an electric-assisted bicycle. (Beginning January 1, 2027, ages 14+ can operate a Class 1 bike). Riders should also wear a properly fitted helmet and follow all applicable safety requirements. Know what you’re riding, understand the rules, and make sure your kids do, too. Keep non-street-legal pit bikes and mini motorcycles off public roads and always ride safely!