E-bikes alternative to cars for commuters top seller for bike shops
Eletric bikes are growing in popularity and have become a hot item in the bike industry. Bikes with motors are replacing cars for urban commuters.
Sure, cars and motorcycles are popular ways to get around. But if you can’t afford either one, an electric bike might save the day like Delaware’s own Superman.
Then again, is it legal to cruise around on an electric bike or electric scooter in Delaware?
Here’s a guide to help you stay out of trouble when traveling in the Small Wonder:
What are Delaware laws for riding electric bikes?
An electric bicycle may be ridden anywhere bicycles are allowed (unless posted otherwise), which includes streets, highways, roadways, shoulders and bicycle lanes.
Delaware prohibits anyone under the age of 16 from operating an electric bicycle, which features pedal assist only and tops off at 28 mph.
Difference between electric scooter, triped and moped explained
A motorized skateboard or scooter is any vehicle with two wheels on the ground, handlebars and a hand-controlled throttle or brake, designed to be stood or sat upon by the operator, according to Delaware law.
While mopeds and tripeds are similar in design and size, mopeds have two wheels and tripeds have three wheels.
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Where can you legally ride motorized vehicles?
Delaware law states that motorized skateboards or scooters can be used on public streets or highways as long as they are in the neutral position or the powertrain function is disengaged. However, in Newark, you can be fined $100 for riding motorized scooters on streets and sidewalks.
Mopeds and tripeds are prohibited on interstates and operating railroads, according to the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.
Do you need insurance for a triped or moped?
No motor vehicle insurance is required for operating a moped or triped, according to the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.
What rules are there for riding a scooter?
Delaware state law states that a person cannot operate a motorized skateboard or scooter while under the influence of alcohol or any drug.
Are there license and registration requirements for electric bikes?
If you want to operate scooters, they must be tagged and registered by the Division of Motor Vehicles, and the operator must have a valid driver’s license.
The Delaware DMV states that a basic driver’s license is required to travel with a moped or triped on public roadways.
The state of Delaware does not have any licensing or registration requirements for electric bikes.
Who can legally ride an electric scooter?
The minimum age to operate a scooter is 16. No person under 12 can operate a scooter unless they are under adult supervision or a parent or legal guardian.
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Is there a law for wearing a helmet on a motorized scooter or skateboard?
To operate a motorized skateboard or scooter, bicycle-type helmets are required for those under 16, according to Delaware State law.
If you have an interesting story idea, email lifestyle reporter Andre Lamar at alamar@gannett.com. Consider signing up for his weekly newsletter, DO Delaware, at delawareonline.com/newsletters