Electric bikes vs electric dirt bikes
Pedals, wattage and speed distinguish electric bicycles from off-road motorcycles. Compare riding rules and machine types before choosing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes something an electric bicycle?
Three conditions, all required. Federal law, 15 U.S.C. § 2085, defines a low-speed electric bicycle as having fully operable pedals, an electric motor under 750 watts, and a motor-only top speed under 20 mph.
So what is an electric dirt bike?
Everything else. If it has no pedals, or its motor is over 750 watts, or it exceeds 20 mph under power alone, it is an off-road motorcycle — an e-moto.
Does adding pedals make it an e-bike?
No. This is the most common misunderstanding and it is an expensive one. Pedals are one of three conditions, not a shortcut past the other two.
Why the difference matters
Where you can legally ride, and what happens if you get it wrong. An electric bicycle can use roads and bike lanes. An electric dirt bike cannot: under 75 Pa.C.S. § 3722 riding one on a Philadelphia street, sidewalk or bicycle lane carries a fine and the machine is subject to forfeiture on conviction.
Which one do you actually want?
Ask where you will ride it. If the answer involves streets, bike lanes, a commute or a trip to the shops, you want an electric bicycle. If the answer is trails, private land or an off-road park, you want an e-moto — and you will need somewhere legal to ride and a way to get it there.