What's the difference between an e-bike and e-moto?
Electric-assisted bikes (e-bikes) are growing in popularity around Sammamish—but they’re often confused with e-motorcycles. Each has different classifications and legal requirements.
To help clarify, the Sammamish Police Department has resources to help the community.
E-motorcycles are not the same as e-bikes. Legal e-bikes are primarily powered by the rider. Their motors don’t produce more than 750 watts of power, they must have pedals, and can’t go faster than 20 MPH without the rider pedaling. If a bike doesn’t meet all those requirements, it is considered a motorcycle and must be registered, insured, street-legal, and operated only on the road by a licensed driver wearing a helmet. Motorcycles can’t be ridden on trails, or sidewalks.
E-bikes are not allowed on soft-surface trails or boardwalks in Sammamish. Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks unless no other bike or pedestrian path is available.
Watch this video for more information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwoSAK8uSp8