Understanding the Law: E-Bikes, Motor-Assisted Scooters, and Mini Motorbikes

Electric bikes and motor-assisted scooters are incredibly popular and there are some important rules here in Texas that help keep everyone safe.

Understanding the Difference

Bicycle: The classic, equipped with two wheels, handlebars, and functioning pedals. Powered only by pure human strength.

Class 1 Electric Bike:

• Pedal-assisted
• No assistance without pedaling
• Maxes out at 20 MPH

Class 2 Electric Bike:

• Throttle-assisted
• Can be ridden without pedaling
• Also has a top speed of 20 MPH

Class 3 Electric Bike:

• Pedal-assisted/optional throttle
• No assistance without pedaling
• MUST be 15 years of age to use
• Has a higher top speed of 28 MPH

IMPORTANT: If your bike does NOT have functional pedals that enable it to be powered by human strength, then it is NOT considered an electric bike. It is considered a mini motorbike or pocket bike, and require their owners to follow a different set of laws.

Motor-Assisted Scooter:

• Electric motor
• Can be propelled by rider alone

The Law:

All three classes of electric bikes (1,2, and 3) may be ridden in the same manner as a bicycle in Texas; however, you must be at least 15 years old to operate a Class 3 electric bike.

Motor-assisted scooters are allowed to be ridden on sidewalks and City trails. They are also allowed on streets with speed limits with a posted speed limit of 35 MPH or lower.

Electric bikes and motor-assisted scooters are authorized to be ridden in the City of Bedford.

When riding on sidewalks electric bikes and motor-assisted scooters must give pedestrians the right-of-way.

When riding on streets electric bikes and motor-assisted scooters are required to adhere to the rules of the roadway and ride as close to the right side of the roadway.

Electric bikes and motor-assisted scooters should not be ridden in a reckless manner or at a speed that endangers the life, limb, or property of the rider or any other person.

It is recommended for all riders to wear a helmet, but it is only required for helmets to be worn by children 17 years of age and under.

IMPORTANT: Mini-motor bikes and pocket bikes are not authorized to be ridden on sidewalks, city trails, or roadways.

To read the full ordinance, visit www.bedfordtx.gov/ordinances and search “bicycle.”