09/09/2026
KNOW YOUR RIDE: E-BIKES, E-MOTOS, MOPEDS & ELECTRIC SCOOTERS
Parents and Riders: similar looks can mean very different rules! A vehicle’s pedals, power and speed determine its legal classification—not the name in the advertisement.
E-BIKE — A bicycle with working pedals
• Definition: A seat, fully working pedals and an electric motor of 750 watts or less.
• Classes: Class 1 = pedal assistance to 20 mph. Class 2 = throttle assistance to 20 mph. Class 3 = pedal assistance to 28 mph.
• Age: No state minimum for Classes 1–2. Class 3 operators must be at least 14.
• License/registration: Neither required.
• Helmet: Required for Class 3 operators and passengers under 18. Recommended for everyone.
• Where: Streets and bicycle lanes open to bicycles. Sidewalk riding is subject to local restrictions; yield to pedestrians. Trail access depends on the class and the trail’s rules—do not assume every e-bike is allowed.
E-MOTO — An electric motorcycle-style vehicle
• Definition: “E-moto” is a common name, not a separate legal class. A vehicle without working pedals, over 750 watts, or outside e-bike assistance limits does not qualify as an e-bike.
• Age/license: If classified as a motorcycle, generally 16 or older with a driver’s license and motorcycle endorsement; learner-permit restrictions apply. If legally classified as a moped, moped rules apply.
• Registration: Street use requires the appropriate title, registration, plate and insurance for its classification.
• Helmet: Motorcycle helmets are required unless the rider qualifies for Michigan’s age-21-and-over exemption.
• Where: Public streets only when legally equipped and registered for street use. Off-road models belong on authorized motorized riding areas or permitted private property—not sidewalks or bicycle trails.
MOPED — A low-speed motor vehicle
• Definition: Two or three wheels, no manual gear shifting, maximum capability of 30 mph on level ground; a gasoline engine cannot exceed 100 cc.
• Age/license: Moped licenses start at 15. A valid driver’s license also qualifies. A Level 1 learner’s license needs an added moped privilege.
• Registration: Michigan moped registration and rear decal required for public-road use.
• Helmet: Required under age 19.
• Where: Streets, riding with traffic and keeping right as practicable. No sidewalks or bicycle paths.
ELECTRIC SCOOTER & ELECTRIC SKATEBOARD
• Definition: A standing device for one person, no larger than 60 inches long by 18 inches wide, no more than 2,500 watts, and maximum capability of 25 mph.
• Age: At least 12 to operate on public streets.
• License/registration: Neither required for devices meeting this definition.
• Helmet: Required under age 19.
• Where: Subject to local restrictions, sidewalks with pedestrians given priority, and eligible streets:
– With handlebars: posted speed limit of 45 mph or less.
– Without handlebars: posted speed limit of 25 mph or less.
• Riding speed: Never more than 25 mph. One rider only.
REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
• E-bikes: Working brakes and required reflectors; a white front light and red rear reflector for nighttime roadway riding. Keep the class/speed/wattage label accurate.
• Electric scooters/skateboards: Must stop under control; nighttime roadway riding requires a white front light and red rear reflector.
• Mopeds/street motorcycles: Required road equipment includes a headlight, tail/brake light, front and rear brakes, horn and rearview mirror. Gas-powered models also need a proper exhaust/muffler.
DOWNTOWN HOLLY: DISMOUNT & WALK
Must walk your electric or traditional bicycle, scooter or skateboard through our Downtown Business District Sidewalks and Streets: Saginaw Street from Maple Street to the railroad tracks, including Battle Alley. Holly’s Chapter 71 establishes downtown riding restrictions and dismount requirements.
Obey traffic signs, give pedestrians room, and check park and trail rules before riding. Parents: check the actual specifications before buying or allowing a child to ride.
Enjoy the ride. Respect your neighbors. Help keep Holly safe!
