Seattle E Bike Laws

Electric bicycles are allowed on roadways and limited access highways bike lanes bike paths and multipurpose paths.

Seattle e bike laws.

All riders must wear a helmet. Helmets are required for riders under 16 years of age. No riders can allow another individual to ride on the vehicle with them. Riders must obey the same traffic laws as bicycle riders and passenger cars.

Riders must give right of way to pedestrians. Individuals under 16 cannot operate a motorized scooter. Class 1 electric bikes which pedal assist up to 20 miles per hour and class 2 electric bikes which can be motor propelled up to 20 miles per hour won t have age restrictions and. The law also restricts the motor output for all classes of e bikes to no more than 750 watts.

Seattle has a number of multi use trails. The state of washington does not have licensing and registration requirements for electric bikes. Class 1 and 2 e bikes are treated as traditional bikes which means they are allowed on sidewalks subject to local laws. The new rules still mandate a 15 mph speed limit for all bike users allow only e bikes capable of reaching a speed of 20 mph or less and include plans for education and outreach.