Seattle E Bike Laws

The new rules still mandate a 15 mph speed limit for all bike users allow only e bikes capable of reaching a speed of 20 mph or less and include plans for education and outreach.

Seattle e bike laws.

All riders must wear a helmet. Riders must give right of way to pedestrians. The state of washington does not have licensing and registration requirements for electric bikes. Every person operating a bicycle upon a sidewalk or public path shall yield the right of way to any pedestrian thereon and shall give an audible signal before overtaking and passing any pedestrian.

Class 1 and 2 e bikes are treated as traditional bikes which means they are allowed on sidewalks subject to local laws. Electric bicycles are allowed on roadways and limited access highways bike lanes bike paths and multipurpose paths. People of all ages and abilities use them. Seattle has a number of multi use trails.

No riders can allow another individual to ride on the vehicle with them. Class 3 e bikes are prohibited on sidewalks except when there is no other safe option for the bikes to travel for. The law also restricts the motor output for all classes of e bikes to no more than 750 watts. Individuals under 16 cannot operate a motorized scooter.