Our West Chester Police Department has investigated crashes and fielded several calls in recent months concerning e-bikes, mopeds, golf carts, and mini bikes. To clear up confusion, we assembled this guide about the classifications of these vehicles, what Ohio law says about their operation, and what West Chester Township restrictions exist for them.

E-Bikes

• A peddle bike that has electronic motor to assist the rider
• Anyone can operate a Class 1 or Class 2 E-bike in a similar manner to a non-motorized bike without a license.
  • Class 1 E-bikes only provide pedal assistance (no throttle) and can reach speeds of up to 20 mph.
  • Class 2 E-bikes have both pedal assist and a throttle, allowing you to ride without pedaling, also capped at 20 mph.
  • Class 3 E-bikes are pedal-assist only but can go up to 28 mph, making them the fastest of the three.
    • A class 3 E-bike must be operated by a rider 16 years of age or older.

      Helmets are required for operators and passengers.

• Ohio regulations state they must be clearly marked with their E-bike classification (1, 2 or 3).
• In Ohio, E-bikes cannot be operated on bike trails traditionally reserved for non-motorized bikes, unless local law allows.
• Operator of e-bike must abide by traffic laws.

Info above was pulled from ORC 4511.01 & 4511.522                                                                                                                                                                                   Mopeds, Motorize Bikes

• Mopeds
  • Mopeds cannot have a motor larger then 50cc.
  • Cannot exceed 20 mph on flat ground.
• Operator must have a license
  • 14- and 15-year-olds can obtain a moped license.
  • 16-year-olds can operate with the operator’s license.
  • Operators under 18 must wear a helmet with a chin strap and the motorized bicycle must be equipped with a rear-view mirror.
• No passengers may ride on motorized bikes & mopeds.
• Operator must obey all traffic laws that apply to motor vehicles and bicycles.
• Info above is from ORC 4511.521

 Gas Powered Scooters and Pocket Bikes

• Classified as motor vehicles, so must comply with state vehicle regulations.
• Must be 16 w/ a motorcycle endorsement.
• Bike/scooter must be registered with a license plate attached to the unit.
• Must be insured.

Golf Carts

• Is considered by ORC definition as a slow-speed vehicle.
• Are not permitted to operate on West Chester Twp public roadway. (ORC 4511.214)