Resources

This research is not a replacement for legal guidelines, always verify the laws in your state and municipality. Electric bike regulations differ by state and even by local governments, which can make it confusing for consumers, retailers, and suppliers. Federal electric bike laws, which apply to models like the ONYX RCR, are customized by each state to meet their specific needs, and municipalities further adapt those laws to their local requirements. It’s your responsibility to check and comply with both local and state laws.

State by State Electric Bike Laws

Research Your Laws

Research federal, state, and local e-bike laws to stay fully informed. It’s important to remember that online advice is no substitute for consulting legal counsel or directly communicating with your local government. Just like Congress at the federal level, your city or town has a legislative body that plays a key role in shaping local laws. This council works alongside the Mayor’s administration as an equal partner in how your community is governed. Stay proactive, and you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the rules confidently!

Government Bodies With Electric Bike Laws

The government bodies responsible for electric bike laws that you can research at the federal, state, and local levels, depending on your location. As an example, I’ve listed three entities from New York State and City. When researching your own state and local laws, keep in mind that these regulations are updated annually based on community needs. At the federal level, look into agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the Department of Transportation (DOT). At the state level, check your state’s transportation department or motor vehicle bureau for regulations. Locally, your city or town council may have additional ordinances regarding electric bike use.

The government agencies responsible for electric bike laws can be researched at the federal, state, and local levels, depending on your location. For example, I’ve listed three entities from New York State and City. When looking up laws for your own area, remember that regulations are updated annually to reflect community needs. At the federal level, you can check agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) or the Department of Transportation (DOT). At the state level, refer to your state’s transportation department or motor vehicle bureau for regulations. Locally, your city or town council may have additional ordinances related to electric bike use.

Federal Register

New York State / New York City

Below is information specific to New York State and New York City. Laws may vary depending on your state, city, or town, so be sure to do your own research.

NYC Electric Bike Pedals Required

To remain within the legal classification, you must keep your pedals, crank, pedal arms, chain, and freewheel in working condition. Converting your ONYX to use pegs instead of pedals could result in confiscation.

New York State bicycle laws apply to all electric bike. However, electric scooters, electric dirt bikes, and gas-powered dirt bikes without pedals have not been given a legal classification in New York City, making them subject to confiscation.

NYC Electric Bike Registration

New York State does not allow the ONYX electric bike to be registered as a moped, and the New York Department of Motor Vehicles does not recognize it as such.

NYC Electric Bike Insurance

The ONYX electric bike, does not require insurance, though it is recommended. Many ONYX RCR owners in NYC opt for insurance coverage, with companies like Geico and State Farm offering policies for the ONYX RCR as an electric bike in New York State.

NYC Electric Bike Classification

In both New York State and New York City, Class 3 electric bikes like the ONYX RCR are the most common in cities with populations of one million or more. New York State’s electric bike classifications, enacted in April 2020, are as follows:

  • Class 1 Electric Bike: Pedal-assist bikes with a maximum speed of 20 mph.
  • Class 2 Electric Bike: Throttle-powered bikes that also max out at 20 mph.
  • Class 3 Electric Bike: Throttle-powered bikes with speeds exceeding 20 mph.

NYC Electric Bike

In simple terms, New York City requires an ONYX electric bike to be operated like cars on roads where the speed limit is 30 mph or lower. You’re allowed to use bike lanes, but you must keep your speed under 15 mph. Electric bike are prohibited on the West Side Bike Path, also known as the Hudson River Park Greenway, with fines reaching up to $750 for violations.

It’s recommended to avoid green bike lanes in Midtown, particularly from 34th Street to 56th Street between Park Avenue and 8th Avenue, due to the heavy presence of tourists and workers. When using bike lanes on New York City bridges, keep your speed under 15 mph. Also, try to avoid riding through Times Square.

NYC Parks Electric Bike Pilot Program

As of January 2025, electric bikes are permitted on specific paths within New York City’s parks, including the West Side bike path, Central Park, and Prospect Park. This change is part of a pilot program initiated by the NYC Parks Department on June 20, 2023, allowing electric bikes on park drives and greenways where traditional bicycles are allowed.

West Side Bike Path

The West Side bike path, part of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway, is included in the pilot program. electric bikes that are legal to operate on NYC streets are now permitted on this path.

Central Park

In Central Park, electric bikes are allowed on the main Park Drives, such as the loop roads, where traditional bicycles are permitted. However, they are prohibited on pedestrian paths. Riders must adhere to park rules, including speed limits and yielding to pedestrians.

Prospect Park

Similarly, in Prospect Park, electric bikes are allowed on the main Park Drive and designated cycling lanes. They are prohibited on pedestrian paths, and riders must follow all traffic signs and signals.

It’s important to note that this pilot program is scheduled to continue through May 31, 2025. Riders should stay informed about any updates or changes to these regulations by consulting official NYC Parks communications.

For safety, all park users are expected to operate their devices considerately, adhering to park rules and being mindful of pedestrians and other park-goers.