Introduction to Arizona eBike Laws
If you ride on two wheels in Arizona, then you need to be aware of the differences between Arizona bicycle laws and Arizona eBike laws. eBikes are similar to traditional bicycles in that they have two wheels, handlebars, pedals, and a seat. They also operate in much the same way until you engage the electric motor. Once that happens, the bikes become more like electronic motorcycles and require special safety gear, operation qualifications, and licensing, while also paving the way for legal issues that differ from those involving regular bicycles.
Many states and regions nationwide have only recently passed laws to regulate the operation of eBikes. Arizona is ahead of the pack with an established framework for safe eBike operation on public roadways. However, some of the regulations differ from what most would expect, which is why it is important to know the eBike laws in Arizona so you can stay safe and avoid legal entanglements.
Knowing how Arizona law defines an eBike is one of the first steps. There are three classifications of eBikes under Arizona law: Class 1, Class 2 , and Class 3. Class 1 and Class 2 eBikes are often referred to in Arizona as bicycle-style eBikes, but they are also known simply as eBikes.
Class 1 e-Bikes are bicycles equipped with a motor which provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, up to speeds of 20 miles per hour (mph). When the bicycle reaches 20 mph, the bike ceases assistance until the rider reduces speed. Class 1 e-Bikes may also include a throttle mechanism to accelerate the bike only when the bike is not being pedaled, although such a mechanism is not common.
Class 2 e-Bikes are bicycles equipped with a motor which provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, but the motor also has a separate hand throttle which may be used to accelerate the bicycle without pedaling. Class 2 e-Bikes also assist the rider only up to 20 mph.
There are very few restrictions on the roadways where eBikes can be ridden. They may be used on publicly maintained roads, sidewalks and paths, unless prohibited elsewhere. However, eBikes are explicitly permitted in certain areas where bicycles are not, like multi-use paths, with allowed speeds of up to 25 mph.
How Does Arizona Regulate eBikes?
Within the state of Arizona, a number of classifications have been given to eBikes. Each classification is based on the maximum speeds they can reach, as well as certain features that they may have. Together, these various forms of classifications make it easy for both riders and the greater population to identify the various types of eBikes on the road.
The first classification of eBike allowed under Arizona law is a Class 1 eBike. The major feature of a Class 1 eBike is that it is capable of being propelled solely by human power. However, this is only possible when there is no pedal assist, which is the second feature of a Class 1 eBike. A Class 1 eBike only offers pedal assist when the rider is propelling the bike through a pedal assist system operated by technology integrated into the bike.
Another Class 1 eBike feature is that it is limited to no more than 20 miles per hour (mph) on level ground when such assist is being given. Along with this, Class 1 eBikes are restricted to a maximum power output of 750 watts. Last but not least, a Class 1 eBike is only able to have two wheels.
The second class of eBikes permitted under Arizona law is a Class 2 eBike. Class 2 eBikes are very similar to Class 1 eBikes, with the primary difference being that they are able to be propelled solely by human power at all times. Unlike Class 1 eBikes, Class 2 eBikes are able to move at a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour (mph) on level ground while the rider is using a power-assisted bicycle system.
Just like Class 1 eBikes, Class 2 eBikes possess a maximum power output of 750 watts. Class 2 eBikes are also prohibited from having more than two wheels, which must be in contact with the ground at all times.
The third and final class of eBikes enabled under Arizona law is a Class 3 eBike. Like Class 1 and Class 2 eBikes, Class 3 eBikes can only have two wheels. However, a Class 3 bike also distinguishes itself in another major way-it is only able to reach a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour (mph) on level ground.
Additionally, the power output of a Class 3 eBike cannot exceed 750 watts while it is engaging a bicycle system that provides power to the bike. Similarly to Class 1 and Class 2 eBikes, Class 3 bikes are only able to have two wheels in contact with the ground at all times.
One rules that Class 3 eBikes do not have in common with Class 1 and Class 2 eBikes is restrictions on where they can be used. Because Class 3 eBikes can reach a higher maximum speed, they are restricted from several places in Arizona. These places include bike paths unless they are being used to cross a roadway and where bicycles are prohibited (unless they are within a city or town or adjacent to a one-mile stretch of a paved bicycle path). These restrictions enable cities and towns to prevent Class 3 eBikes from utilizing where most bicycles are able to go.
We see that there are three total eBike classes under Arizona law: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. Class 1 and Class 2 eBikes differ primarily in the fact that Class 1 eBikes are able to remain motionless when there is no pedal assist, whereas Class 2 eBikes are able only to be propelled solely by human power at all times. Class 3 eBikes differ from their counterparts in the Class 1 and Class 2 categories because of the maximum speed they can reach, which is 28 miles per hour (mph) on level ground. Class 1 and Class 2 bikes, by contrast, can only move up to 20 miles per hour (mph) on level ground.
Arizona eBikes and Ages/Helmets
Age and helmet requirements can vary per class of eBike, so we’ll touch on them briefly here. As you may know, the eBike classes are as follows:
Class 1 electric bicycle is an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and the motor ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour.
Class 2 electric bicycle is an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used to assist the rider in propelling the bicycle but is not used to propel the bicycle at a speed of more than 20 miles per hour without the rider also pedaling.
Class 3 electric bicycle is an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and the motor ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 28 miles per hour.
Since the use of eBikes on public roadways can be confusing as to whether eBikes are actually bicycles or not, the use of helmets depends on the class of eBike you are riding.
Class 1 eBike riders (those with a maximum speed of 20 mph) aren’t required to wear a helmet unless they are under 18 years of age. In contrast, Class 3 eBike riders (those with a maximum speed of 28 mph) must wear a helmet regardless of age.
The fact that riders under 18 must wear a helmet is in the Arizona Revised Statutes §28-8151. According to this statute, those under 18 years of age who ride on a street, bike path, shared use path or other way exclusively for bicycles must properly wear a helmet that is fitted and fastened on their heads.
Violating the helmet law can lead to a fine of up to $500, but the offense is treated as a civil violation.
Where Can Arizona Riders Use eBikes?
The good news is that Arizona allows eBikes to be used in many places. You can share bicycle paths with normal bikes and ride on a motor vehicle path, unless they specifically ban motorized bikes. Some paths are for pedestrians only, so folks on eBikes will have to find another way around those. It is the rider’s responsibility to find out what trails and paths permit eBikes.
On roadways, if you can ride your bike there, you can ride your eBike there. But don’t forget the eBike also must comply with all traffic laws. One rider’s error could have consequences for all of us who ride eBikes.
Equipment, Operation, and Safety for Arizona eBikes
There are various equipment and safety standards Arizona eBike riders need to be aware of.
Lights and Reflectors
In addition to the equipment and safety standards specific to eBikes, the operator of an electric bike that is not a motorized bicycle must comply with the requirements relevant for bicycles. Specifically, an eBike cannot be operated at night without:
Arizonans riding their eBike in the dark should also have a rear reflector.
Braking System
Depending on the type of eBike, specific braking capabilities must be met:
(1) For Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles, an electric bicycle equipped with a combustion engine shall be equipped with a brake system that will enable the operator to stop safely at any time.
(2) For Class 3 electric bicycles, a class three electric bicycle shall be equipped with a brake system that will enable the operator to stop safely without skidding on dry, level, clean pavement.
Arizona eBike Registration and Insurance
eBike laws in Arizona do not require you to register an eBike, so there is no need to apply for a license plate to attach to your electric bike. The only sign you will need is a state issued eBike Number to attach to your Frame.
Currently, the Arizona Revised Statute §28-2516 does not address eBike insurance requirements in Arizona. Because Arizona does not require eBikes to be registered, there is no need for owners to wonder why they need insurance. That being said, to be prudent, insurance is strongly advised. As eBikes gain in popularity, more and more eBike insurers are coming on the market.
There are no Arizona-specific insurers for eBikes; however , most traditional insurers that insure traditional bicycles such as Progressive, State Farm, Allstate, and USAA also provide insurance for eBikes. At the federal lever, the U.S. government is pursuing various ways to improve safety and mitigate risk with regards to eBike. These efforts are being spearheaded by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a division of DOT, is working to develop performance standards for bicycle systems to improve bicycle safety and performance test standards for eBike systems.
Arizona eBikes Fail-to-Obey Penalties
When it comes to Arizona eBike and PEV laws, compliance is not optional. Law enforcement is increasingly targeting people who ignore the rules of the road. If you are not by the book with your ride, you may be subject to serious penalties that go beyond a simple traffic stop. Those penalties may include: Civil Penalties – As an owner or operator of a PEV, it is up to you to stay compliant with the latest municipal regulations. While you can enjoy many freedoms and privileges on your eBike or PEV, authorities expect you to pay attention to common rules of the road like speed limits, pedestrian rights-of-way and wearing safety gear. If you are caught breaking any local eBike law, you could face a municipal civil fine that can range from $75 to $500, depending on the severity of the offense. Criminal Consequences – eBikes and PEVs are not exempt from arrests and criminal charges. If you are caught racing, recklessly endangering the lives of others, deliberately obstructing pedestrians or other drivers, etc., you may face a misdemeanor citation. If you fail to appear in court for your citation, you may face criminal charges for noncompliance, with fines of $500 or more and the potential of jail time. Your driver’s license and insurance rates may also be affected by fines and fees associated with eBike violations or accidents. These penalties are typically handled through the civil courts, but other illegal activities may be subject to criminal prosecution.
Arizona eBikes and Recent Law Changes
Over the past year, there have been some important updates to Arizona eBike laws and regulations that riders should be aware of. In 2021, the Arizona State Legislature passed House Bill 2274, which made some changes to the way electric bicycles are categorized and regulated. Under the new law, Arizona now has three classes of eBikes: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. Class 1 eBikes are pedal-assist bicycles that provide assistance to the rider only when the rider is pedaling. Class 2 eBikes provide power assistance to the rider whether or not the rider is pedaling. Finally, Class 3 eBikes provide power assistance to the rider only when the rider is pedaling and are equipped with a speedometer.
In addition to these changes in classification, the new law also clarifies and establishes where eBikes are allowed to ride. Under the new law, Class 1 and Class 2 eBikes may be ridden on any roadway or bikeway, unless the local jurisdiction or owner of a bikeway has prohibited the use of such bikes. Class 3 eBikes may only be ridden on roadways and bike paths where the local government has determined that such use is appropriate.
Another important change in the new law is the establishment of requirements for eBike manufacturers and sellers. Under the new law, all eBikes must be labeled with a unique serial number, and manufacturers must provide a certificate of origin for each eBike sold. If you purchased your eBike before this law was enacted, don’t worry! The prior labeling, certification, and regulation requirements for eBikes will remain the same.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Arizona eBike laws serve a critical purpose in ensuring the safety of eBikers and other road users. With the eBike industry gaining more recognition among local and federal regulators, eBike owners must take time to self-educate and stay informed of their local laws. Remember that eBikes are likely to continue increasing in popularity; thus, new laws, regulations and guidelines may be introduced over time. In light of the above , eBike owners should actively stay in touch with local eBike regulations. Plus, there’s a lot that eBike riders need to keep an eye out for. Other road users, including pedestrians and motorists, need to be knowledgeable on the particulars of Arizona eBike regulations as well. After all, we’re all bound to share the road. We’re all responsible for each other’s safety.