A new bill introduced in the Oregon State Senate by Senator Floyd Prozanski seeks to restrict the use of Class 3 electric bicycles on sidewalks, bike paths, and bike lanes. This proposed legislation, Senate Bill 471, has sparked debate among cyclists, e-bike enthusiasts, and transportation advocates. The bill aims to address safety concerns related to the increasing popularity of high-speed e-bikes, but it also raises questions about access and equity for e-bike riders.
Understanding E-bike Classifications
To understand the implications of the proposed ban, it’s important to know the different classes of e-bikes. E-bikes are generally categorized into three classes based on their motor assist capabilities:
Class 1 E-bikes
- Pedal-assist only: The motor only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling.
- Maximum assisted speed: 20 mph.
- Throttle: No throttle is present on a Class 1 e-bike.
Class 2 E-bikes
- Pedal-assist and throttle: The motor can assist when the rider is pedaling, or it can propel the bike using a throttle without pedaling.
- Maximum assisted speed: 20 mph.
Class 3 E-bikes
- Pedal-assist only: The motor only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling.
- Maximum assisted speed: 28 mph.
- Throttle: Class 3 e-bikes do not have a throttle.
- Additional features: Typically include a speedometer.
Class 3 e-bikes, often called “speed pedelecs,” are designed for higher speeds and efficient urban travel. They are favored by commuters and those who need to cover longer distances quickly.
Senate Bill 471: The Proposed Restrictions
Senate Bill 471 seeks to amend existing Oregon law to include Class 3 e-bikes in the same category as mopeds regarding usage restrictions. Currently, mopeds are prohibited from sidewalks, bike paths, and bike lanes. If passed, SB 471 would effectively ban Class 3 e-bikes from these same areas.
Key Provisions of the Bill:
- Prohibition on bike paths and lanes: Class 3 e-bikes would be banned from sidewalks, bike paths, and bike lanes. They would be restricted to public roadways.
- Removal of right-of-way protections: The bill would remove the right-of-way protections currently afforded to cyclists in bike lanes for Class 3 e-bike riders. This means motorists would no longer be legally required to yield to Class 3 e-bikes in bike lanes when crossing over them, for example, when entering driveways.
- Treating Class 3 E-bikes Like Mopeds: The bill seeks to legally classify Class 3 e-bikes similarly to mopeds which are prohibited from sidewalks, bicycle paths, and bike lanes.
- Improper use of lanes: The bill would add to the existing law regarding “improper use of lanes” which would give a Class 3 e-bike rider the legal right to use a bicycle lane or path “only when the bicycle is powered exclusively by human power.”
Why the Proposed Restrictions?
Senator Prozanski has stated his primary concern is the safety of pedestrians and other cyclists sharing paths and lanes with faster-moving Class 3 e-bikes. He notes that the speed difference between a Class 3 e-bike and a traditional bicycle or pedestrian can create dangerous situations. The bill aims to address potential safety issues that may arise from the increased use of high-speed e-bikes in shared spaces.
Concerns with the Bill
The proposed legislation has met with criticism from e-bike users and advocates who argue that it unfairly targets a mode of transportation that promotes sustainability and reduces traffic congestion. Critics of the bill express the following concerns:
- Discrimination: The bill disproportionately impacts Class 3 e-bike riders, who rely on these bikes for commuting and other forms of transportation.
- Safety: Some argue that forcing Class 3 e-bikes onto public roadways, which may lack adequate bike lanes or shoulders, could actually increase the risk of accidents.
- Lack of distinction between e-bikes and mopeds: Some critics argue it is unfair to classify Class 3 e-bikes with mopeds since e-bikes still require pedaling and do not have the same power as mopeds.
- Enforcement: It may be difficult for law enforcement to distinguish between different classes of e-bikes, as the visual differences are not obvious.
- Right of Way: Removing the right-of-way protection for Class 3 e-bikes could put riders at greater risk of collisions with cars.
A Misnomer?
Senator Prozanski admitted that using “Class 3” as a defining characteristic in the bill may have been a misnomer. The Senator stated his real concern is with fully motorized bikes that do not require any physical assistance by the rider. This would include small electric motorcycles and mopeds which are increasingly being ridden at high speeds on shared use paths.
Current E-bike Laws in Oregon
Currently, Oregon law does not require a license to operate an e-bike as long as it meets specific criteria, such as having a motor with a maximum power output of 1000w and not exceeding 20mph. E-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks in Oregon, but are allowed on bike paths. The minimum age to operate an e-bike is 16, and helmets are not required for riders.
E-bikes on Trails
- Singletrack Trails: Local land management agencies determine the rules for e-bike usage on singletrack trails.
- State Level: The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department restricts electric bicycles on mountain bike trails, but class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed on trails that are eight feet or wider, including natural surface trails.
- Federal Level: On federal lands, e-bikes are classified as motorized vehicles, granting them access to motorized trails.
Other States and E-bike Regulations
E-bike laws vary across states. Some states have adopted the three-class system, while others have different rules. Here are some examples of how other states regulate Class 3 e-bikes:
California
- Age Limit: Riders must be at least 16 years old.
- Helmet Requirement: Riders under 18 must wear a helmet.
- Where to Ride: Class 3 e-bikes can be ridden in bike lanes, but are generally not allowed on multi-use paths unless specifically permitted.
- Throttle: In California, Class 3 e-bikes are not permitted to have a throttle at all.
Maine
- Age Limit: Riders must be 16 years or older.
- Where to Ride: Class 3 e-bikes can only be operated on bike paths if permitted by the local authority.
The Future of E-bikes in Oregon
The debate surrounding SB 471 highlights the challenges of regulating new forms of transportation. As e-bikes become more popular, lawmakers must balance safety concerns with the need to provide equitable access and promote sustainable transportation options. The outcome of this bill could have significant implications for e-bike riders in Oregon.
Additional Legislation
There has been additional movement to create a task force to recommend laws on e-bikes, scooters, and mopeds by the end of the year. There was also a bill that passed the House that would allow anyone over 16 to ride any class of e-bike and it would ban anyone younger than 16 from riding an e-bike without a driver’s license or permit.
Conclusion
The proposed ban on Class 3 e-bikes in bike lanes and paths by Senator Prozanski is a significant development in the ongoing discussion about e-bike regulations in Oregon. As the legislative session progresses, the future of e-bike access in the state remains uncertain. The outcome of this bill will likely have implications for all e-bike riders and influence future policy decisions surrounding sustainable transportation. It will be important to follow the progress of this bill and to engage in discussions on how to best regulate e-bikes in a way that promotes safety and equitable access for all users.
Note: This article is based on information available as of January 22, 2025. Laws and regulations are subject to change, so it is important to consult official sources for the most up-to-date information.
