Electric bikes (or e-bikes) are becoming a popular and fast way to get around New York City—but recent changes in enforcement are putting riders at legal risk. If you’re riding an e-bike in NYC, it’s critical to know the laws and how recent policy changes could turn a simple ticket into a criminal charge.
What Is an E-Bike?
An electric bicycle is a bicycle with a built-in electric motor designed to assist with pedaling. E-bikes typically fall into three legal categories in New York:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph
- Class 2: Throttle-powered (no pedaling), up to 20 mph
- Class 3: Pedal-assist, up to 25 mph
Tampering with speed controls to exceed legal limits is strictly prohibited.
Note: E-bikes are not the same as electric motorcycles (e-motos), which can reach speeds of 40–60 mph and are subject to different regulations.
Key E-Bike Regulations in New York
Key E-Bike Regulations in New York- Riders must be at least 16 to operate a Class 3 e-bike
- Helmets are required for riders ages 16–17, and recommended for all riders
- E-bikes must stay off sidewalks unless operated manually (not motor-powered)
- Riders must follow all standard traffic laws, including red lights and stop signs
- Riding recklessly—such as against traffic or weaving through cars—can result in fines or criminal charges
Violations can lead to citations, fines, and for minors, even delays in obtaining a driver’s license.
New NYC Crackdown: Traffic Tickets Now Criminal Charges for E-Bike Riders
In a major policy shift, the NYPD now issues criminal summonses for e-bike riders who:
- Run red lights
- Fail to stop at stop signs
- Ride the wrong way
- Operate under the influence
- Drive recklessly
These offenses were previously handled through the DMV’s Traffic Violations Bureau. Now, they require a criminal court appearance—making it more important than ever to take these tickets seriously.
Where Enforcement Is Focused
Expect heightened enforcement in areas like:
- Manhattan: 2nd Ave, 6th Ave, Delancey St, 125th St
- Brooklyn: Broadway, Flatbush Ave, Fulton St, Grand St
- Bronx: Fordham Rd, 149th St, Tremont Ave
- Queens: Roosevelt Ave, Steinway St, Northern Blvd
Even though some of these violations are still technically infractions under New York State law (like VTL 1111(d)(1) for red lights), NYC has opted to process them as criminal cases locally—meaning you’ll need to appear in court or have a lawyer appear for you.
Cited While Riding an E-Bike? We Can Help.
If you’ve received a criminal summons or traffic ticket while riding an e-bike, don’t ignore it. These cases can come with serious consequences—including a criminal record, fines, and missed work for court appearances.
At Weiss & Associates, PC, we can represent you in court and help fight the charges—even without you having to appear in person.
Why Work With Us?
- We understand the evolving landscape of e-bike laws in NYC
- We appear in criminal and traffic court on your behalf
- We aim to reduce or dismiss your charges whenever possible
- We’ve helped thousands of New Yorkers fight traffic tickets and summonses
Get a Free Consultation
If you’ve been ticketed while riding an e-bike or have a court date coming up, don’t go it alone. Contact us today for a free consultation.