And what I mean is NOT only does the bike MUST have a license plate AND be a registered Motor Vehicle, the operator MUST also have a Driver's Licensee.

Now, other states, Texas and California, call anything with an engine less then 50 cc (and any electric equilvilant) NOT a motor vehicle. Thus you MUST check your states Vehicle Code if this makes your bicycle a Motor Vehicle or not.

Here is Wikipedia's list of what States permit what.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle_laws#State_requirements_for_use
It is an INCOMPLETE List, nothing is given for Pennsylvania in the list, but Pennsylvania law is mentioned in the write-up following the list, but Maryland is noted for requiring the bike to be licensed.

Bummer about Pennsylvania. In Colorado and most other states if the power assist is less than 20mph and 750Watts, the rules are the same as riding a bicycle -- no license or insurance required.

We do need to be aware of municipal rules for further restrictions. In Fort Collins we can use power on streets and bike lanes, but we need to pedal without power assist on trails (there are signs to let visitors know the rules).

I hope the few states that have laws built around mopeds adopt electric allowances. Riders are enjoying more commutes to work and errands to the store by bicycle/Ridekick-trailer, and the car stays in the garage

Ride On...
Mark

In the last decade, this bicycling forum has a user with an electric bicycle. It used lead acid batteries and was heavy.

I think she passed away.