E-Bike Safety Guidelines for Groton Residents
Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are an increasingly popular, sustainable, and enjoyable way to get around. Whether commuting to work, running errands, or exploring local trails, e-bikes offer an efficient and eco-friendly transportation option. However, their growing use also brings a responsibility to operate them safely and within the law. Understanding and following Massachusetts’ e-bike rules protects everyone on the road, including cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists, and helps ensure e-bikes remain a positive part of the transportation system.
E-Bike Classifications
To help regulate e-bike use, Massachusetts law defines e-bikes by class. Each class is based on how the motor provides assistance to the rider and the maximum speed it allows. Knowing your e-bike’s classification is essential to riding it legally and safely in different settings.
CLASS 1: Bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph, with an electric motor of 750 watts or less.
CLASS 2: Bicycle equipped with a throttle-actuated motor that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph, with an electric motor of 750 watts or less.
Note: MassBike will continue to advocate for a Class 3 definition in order to match MA law with federal definitions and statewide regulations set by the Department of Conservation of Recreation
Safety Requirements & Riding Rules
Helmet Required: All riders under 17 years of age must wear a helmet that complies with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standards.
Sidewalk Restrictions: E-bikes may not be ridden on sidewalks, especially in downtown or high-pedestrian areas.
Passenger Rules: A passenger is only allowed if the bike is equipped with a seat for them.
Riding Formation: Riders may travel two abreast, but must switch to single file when being passed by a motor vehicle.
Traffic Compliance: Riders must follow all motor vehicle laws and general bicycle laws, including:
- Stopping at red lights and stop signs
- Yielding to pedestrians
- Obeying lane markings and signals
Lighting Requirements: Between ½ hour after sunset and ½ hour before sunrise, a bike must have:
- A white front light
- A flashing red rear light
Fines and Enforcement: Violations may result in fines, and for minors, police may impound the bike for up to 15 days.
LEGAL REFERENCE
Massachusetts General Law Chapter 85-11B
Any person 16 years of age or younger operating a bicycle or being carried as a passenger on a bicycle on a public way, bicycle path or on any other public right-of-way shall wear a helmet. Said helmet shall fit the person’s head, shall be secured to the person’s head by straps while the bicycle is being operated, and shall meet the standards for helmets established by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission. These requirements shall not apply to a passenger if the passenger is in an enclosed trailer or other device which adequately holds the passenger in place and protects the passenger’s head from impact in an accident.
Violations of any provision of this section except violations of subclause (iii) of clause (2) shall be punished by a fine of not more than twenty dollars. The parent or guardian of any person under age eighteen shall not authorize or knowingly permit any such person to violate any of the provisions of this section. A bicycle operated by a person under the age of eighteen in violation of this section may be impounded by the police department, or in a town which has no police department, by the selectmen, for a period not to exceed fifteen days. A violation of any provision of this section by a minor under the age of eighteen shall not affect any civil right or liability nor shall such violation be considered a criminal offense.
Additional Resources
