Electronic Bike and Scooter Safety and Leqal Information

With the popularity of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters) increasing, the Pittsville Police Department would like to inform the community about the legal parameters and remind everyone of the safety considerations surrounding these devices. 

• E-Bikes and e-scooters are generally subject to the same rules of the road as bicycles: 
• Riders must obey traffic signs, signals, and ride responsibly. 
• No driver's license, registration, or insurance is required for lawful e-bikes or e-scooters in Wisconsin 
• Wisconsin defines e-bikes as having fully operational pedals and a motor of 750 watts or less. 
• Devices that have a motor greater than 750 watts are not considered legal e-bikes and may be considered motor vehicles (requiring registration, license, and insurance). 

• Wisconsin recognizes three classes of e-bikes. Riders under 16 years old may NOT operate a Class 3 e-bike
• Class I Pedal-assist Only with a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. 
• Class 2: Pedal-assist or throttle, both capping out at 20 mph. 
• Class 3: Pedal-assist only with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph
• E-scooters cannot be operated on any public roadway, trail, or sidewalk, at a speed greater than I5 mph. (ref. Wi Statute 346.94(18s)) 
• Riders operating on the roadway should ride as close as practicable to the right-hand side of the roadway unless conditions require otherwise. 
• During hours of darkness, bikes, e-bikes, and e-scooters must have a white front light visible from at least 500 feet and a red rear light or adequate reflector.

The Pittsville Police Department wants everyone to be safe. Ride responsibly, wear a helmet and watch out for pedestrians and traffic.