bicycle/moped question (legal)?
In NJ, NY, MA, DC, and MD: if i put a front electric hub motor on my bicycle, do I have to register it as a MOPED or can I ride it as a bicycle (following the appropriate rules for cycling). The laws look like they talk about engine displacement, but if you have an electric motor that still requires you to pedal and the bike has a standard mountain bike frame, can I ride it as a bike?
Also, wouldn’t I be able to get away with riding it anyway since it’s still a bike and I still have to pedal? besides, what would i put as the make, model, and VIN?
This is a great question because i have been asked about this before. Your right, engine displacement does play a big part as far as the law is concerned. You would have to check locally (obviously you have done some research) to see the laws concerning them. Where I’m from if your on 49cc’s or less you dont have to have insurance but you do have to register it. Now your sayin its an electric motor so that makes it more confusing. The fact that it is "petal assist" does not make a difference, it is still considered a motor vehicle. My advise would be to ride it and not worry about it, just obey ALL traffic laws and you should be alright. If you still need more advise next time your neighborhood cops comes by just stop him and ask him what his opinion is. If he doesn’t have a problem I wouldn’t worry about it.
its pedal assist so it MAY be exempt, but im not sure