10/16/2026
KNOW THE DIFFERENCE: E-BIKE vs. E-MOTORCYCLE
Not everything sold as an "e-bike" is legally an e-bike in North Carolina. Before you buy one, or hand one to your teen, check these three things: pedals, power, and speed.
E-BIKE
• Fully working pedals
• Motor of 750 watts or less
• Motor stops helping at 20 mph or 28 mph depending on class
• Treated like a bicycle: no license, registration, or insurance needed
E-MOTORCYCLE
• No pedals, or pedals that are just for looks
• Motor of more than 750 watts
• Can exceed 30+ mph on motor power alone
• Legally a MOTORCYCLE in NC: a driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement, DMV registration, liability insurance, and a helmet are all required
• Not permitted on greenways or sidewalks
QUICK TEST: No real pedals? Goes faster than 28 mph without pedaling? It's not an e-bike.
Riding an e-motorcycle without the right license, registration, and insurance can lead to citations, and these machines are fast enough to cause serious injuries. Know what you're riding before you ride it.
Questions? Contact Cary 311.