The use of electric-assist bicycles (“e-bikes”) has grown rapidly over the last 5 years. Modern e-bikes often look indistinguishable from a “regular” bike but have robust batteries and technology which are capable of sensing when a rider needs a helping hand over a hill, into a headwind, or accelerating from a stop. While e-bikes have existed for years, recent advances in technology have allowed batteries to become smaller, lighter, cheaper, and longer range, enhancing the usefulness, appeal, and affordability of these machines. E-bikes appeal to many types of people but particularly for those who use them as a tool to overcome limited physical fitness, for people running everyday errands who want to carry heavier loads, and for parents transporting children.
Current E-Bike Laws in Massachusetts
As of August 10, 2022, the e-bike definition language was signed into law as amendments to the Transportation Bond Bill (H.5151) to include Class 1 and Class 2 definitions for e-bikes. This law went into effect 90 days from signing, on November 8, 2022.
CLASS 1: Bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph, with an electric motor of 750 watts or less.
CLASS 2: Bicycle equipped with a throttle-actuated motor that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph, with an electric motor of 750 watts or less.
Note: MassBike will continue to advocate for a Class 3 definition in order to match MA law with federal definitions and statewide regulations set by the Department of Conservation of Recreation.
E-Bikes in Massachusetts Info Sheet
Regulations
E-bike riders are afforded all the rights and privileges related to all bicycle riders, except that e-bikes are not allowed to be ridden on sidewalks.
Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles are not considered to be "motorized bicycles" as further defined in MA law, as such no license is required to ride them and they're allowed on bikeways and bike paths. However a local jurisdiction may regulate and prohibit their use on bikeways/bike paths, but only after a public notice and public hearing.
E-bikes are not allowed on "natural surface" trails (ie. mountain bike trails) unless otherwise permitted by a local jurisdiction.
Want to read more about e-bikes? Click here for our in depth FAQ.
Massachusetts E-Bike Rebates
In the fall of 2024 or spring of 2025, MassCEC expects to launch a statewide e-bike incentive to partially offset the cost of e-bikes for low- and moderate-income residents. Further details will be available closer to the launch date.
The program is not yet accepting applications but is collecting contact information of interested individuals to ensure they’re notified when the application is launched. Those interested in the program should fill out MassCEC’s E-Bike Rebate Interest Form.
Learn more about the benefits of e-bikes on MassCEC’s Electric Bicycles page.
Interested in e-bike rebates?
The Department of Energy Resources has been hearing from constituents and is compiling all of the comments and outreach they receive around e-bike rebates. The best thing you can do to support Massachusetts E-Bike rebates is to send an email explaining your interest in electric bicycle rebates to DOER’s general email address [email protected]. Please CC [email protected] so that we can keep track of support.