If you live in Bergen County, you’ve probably seen it, groups of teenagers zipping through intersections, weaving between cars, or racing down sidewalks on electric bikes. What many don’t realize is that these aren’t just “bikes.”
Under New Jersey law, most of these e-bikes actually qualify as mopeds, which means they’re subject to strict regulations that few riders are following.
E-Bikes Are Legally Mopeds, Not Toys
In New Jersey, a moped is defined as a low-speed motorized vehicle with pedals and an engine under 50cc (or its electric equivalent). That definition includes many of the electric bikes flooding our streets today.
If an e-bike can travel more than 20 miles per hour under motor power alone, it’s not a “bike” it’s a moped. And that distinction comes with important legal obligations:
- You must be at least 15 years old to operate one.
- You must have a driver’s license.
- You must register the vehicle with the state.
- You must carry insurance.
Ignoring these requirements can lead to serious fines, liability issues, and safety risks especially when minors are involved.
Why Ramsey Took Action
The town of Ramsey, New Jersey, recently made headlines for taking decisive action against the growing e-bike problem. Local officials banned e-bikes altogether, citing a sharp increase in accidents and injuries involving teens.
While the move may seem extreme, many parents and residents see it as overdue. Kids have been hurt some seriously by high-speed e-bikes that weren’t designed for inexperienced riders or public sidewalks.
Officials hope the ban will reduce reckless riding and force families to take a closer look at what their kids are actually operating.
The Hidden Dangers of E-Bikes
At first glance, e-bikes look harmless a fun, eco-friendly way for teens to get around. But these machines can reach speeds up to 30 mph or more, and most riders don’t wear helmets or protective gear.
Combine that with inexperience, distracted riding, and busy local traffic, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
At Sadaka Law, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when defective or misused products cause harm. Whether it’s a car, a medical device, or an e-bike, manufacturers and sellers have a duty to ensure their products are safe and properly marketed.
What Parents and Riders Should Know
If your child owns or rides an e-bike:
- Check the manufacturer’s specs, if it can exceed 20 mph, it’s a moped under New Jersey law.
- Make sure they have the proper license and insurance.
- Educate them about traffic laws and safety gear.
- And most importantly, don’t assume these bikes are toys.
E-bikes are powerful vehicles and treating them like bicycles can lead to serious consequences.
The Bottom Line
Ramsey’s ban may be controversial, but it highlights a growing safety issue across New Jersey. Until state laws catch up with technology and enforcement improves, towns are left to protect their residents the best they can.
E-bikes might be marketed as convenient or fun, but under the law and in practice they’re mopeds. And when it comes to the safety of our kids and communities, that distinction matters.
