E-bikes & Scooters

The West Linn Police Department would like to remind our community that various types of alternative vehicles in Oregon, including e-bikes and e-scooters, are subject to traffic rules. If you have questions call the non-emergency line or refer to the information below:

definitions

Electric Assisted Bicycle (E-Bike): Has fully operative pedals for human propulsion and an electric motor with power output not more than 1,000 watts. To be considered an e-bike, it must also not be capable of going faster than 20 mph on level ground without assistance (i.e. pedaling).

Motor Assisted Scooter (E-Scooter): Can be propelled by motor OR human propulsion, and is equipped with a power source (gas or electric) that maxes out at 24 mph on level ground.
 

Basic rules

E-bikes are considered a bicycle in the Oregon Vehicle Code, but there are a few different rules that apply to them. The minimum age to operate an e-bike is 16. People riding e-bikes may ride in bicycle lanes and on paths, but not on sidewalks. If there is not a bicycle lane, you can ride an e-bike or e-scooter in the lane with traffic.

Electric scooters, or “e-scooters”, are subject to the same rules as e-bikes, except people of all ages must wear a helmet while riding an e-scooter and travel at a max speed of 15 miles per hour. 
 

Oregon DMV reference chart

Test your skills: How many of the following facts do you know?

● Both e-scooters and e-bikes are prohibited on all sidewalks.
● Both e-scooter users on public roads and e-bike riders must be 16 or older.
● E-scooter riders must use a bike lane or path if available. E-bike riders may use a bike lane.
● E-scooter users must wear helmets. E-bike users are not required to wear helmets.
● E-scooters may not travel at at speeds above 15 mph (even if the vehicle can do more). E-bikes are not capable of speeds above 20 mph.
● Driving either vehicle under the influence can result in a DUII charge.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information to consider before operating an e-bike, please visit the Oregon DMV's page, or see the below resources:

• ORS 814.400 Application of vehicle laws to bicycles  https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_814.400
• ORS 814.486 Endangering bicycle operator or passenger  https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_814.486
• LOC 32.10.810 Requirements for Operation of Bicycles Generally  https://ecode360.com/32.10.810