High-Speed E-Bicycles Could be Banned from Oregon Paths, Lanes, and Sidewalks

High-speed e-bicycles may be banned from Oregon bicycle paths, lanes, and sidewalks unless operated using human power only.

A new bill is seeking the approval of the Oregon Legislative Assembly and will affect Class 3 E-bicycles that can reach maximum speeds of 28 mph.

Exemption Will Apply if E-Bikes are Operated Solely by Human Power

Senate Bill 471 is seeking to restrict the use of Class 3 e-bicycles on pathways, lanes, and sidewalks by stipulating that unless operated solely by human power, it would constitute a Class D traffic violation.

If approved, the bill will amend several sections of the Oregon Revised Statutes. For example, e-bikes will be protected under right-of-way laws for bicycles. Riders of Class 3s will have no legal protection against a motorist failing to yield at a bike lane.

Another change seeks to give e-bikers the legal right to use bicycle paths and lanes ‘only when the bicycle is powered exclusively by human power.’

If approved by the Legislative Assembly, the changes will come into effect sometime this year.