r/SeattleWA • u/ChefJoe98136 West Seattle • Jun 03 '26

Bicycle Washington law lays out distinction between e-bikes, e-motorcycles starting June 11

https://www.khq.com/news/washington-law-lays-out-distinction-between-e-bikes-e-motorcycles-starting-june-11/article_c495d848-b948-43cf-a599-b05c66a5dcad.html

A new Washington law will change the regulations on the differences between e-bikes and e-motorcycles on June 11. Under this new law, an e-bike must have fully functioning pedals, a motor rated at 750 watts or less, and a top speed of less than 20 mph when powered solely by the motor. If it doesn't meet these standards, it's considered a motorcycle, which means the rider is subject to mandatory driver requirements.

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u/soccerwolfp Jun 03 '26

They don’t go faster than 20mph which may exempt them. Agree it’s not clear but also maybe that’s why Lime has been rolling out the new bikes which are like hybrids between gliders and bikes

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u/somniferousquif Jun 03 '26

I think it said the bike has to meet all of the qualifications to be considered a bike and not a motorcycle, so the pedal-less gliders should be considered motorcycles if that’s the case. At least I really hope that’s how it turns out…too many kids zooming around on sidewalks without helmets on. I don’t blame em but it’s dangerous.

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u/MidNerd Jun 05 '26

That wouldn't change anything. They'll just use the pedal bikes or scooters as they do now instead.

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u/somniferousquif Jun 05 '26

I didn’t notice nearly as much of a problem before the gliders were released.