*If e-powered devices exceed statutory limitations (summarized below), they could require title, registration, insurance, and a driver's license with proper endorsements similar to a motorcycle or moped.

E-Bikes

E-bikes are bicycles with battery-powered assistance for riding. Assistance can come from a pedal-assist motor or a throttle, depending on the bike. Oregon classifies e-bikes into three categories based on speed and assist type. 

Below is a summary, for more detailed information please reference HB 4007.

Class 1

A class 1 e-bike has two pedals and a pedal assist motor.
Maximum assistive speed: 20 MPH
Minimum age: 16 years old (changes to 14 years old on 1/1/27)
Children under this age may ride a Class 1 e-bike only on private property with permission.
Helmet: required until the age of 16. Helmet recommended for those aged 16 and older.

Class 2
A class 2 e-bike has two pedals, a throttle and a pedal assist motor.
Maximum assistive speed: 20 MPH
Minimum age: 16 years old
Helmet: not required by law for riders age 16+, but is strongly recommended.

Class 3
A class 3 e-bike has two pedals, a pedal assist motor and must be equipped with a speedometer.
Maximum assistive speed: 28 MPH
Minimum age: 16 years old
Helmet: not required by law for riders age 16+, but is strongly recommended.

E-Scooters

E-scooters/motor-assisted scooters do not have pedals and are propelled by motor or human propulsion. 
Maximum assistive speed: 15 MPH (changes to 20 MPH on 1/1/27)
Minimum age: 16 years old (changes to 14 years old on 1/1/27)
Helmet: required by law for all riders, regardless of age (ORS 814.534)

Traditional bicycles are powered entirely by pedaling. E-bikes use a battery powered motor to help riders pedal or, on some models, provide power with a throttle. Depending on the class, motor assistance stops at 20 or 28 MPH.

If it doesn't have pedals, or if an e-bike exceeds these speeds while using motor assistance, it could be considered a motorcycle and could require title, registrations, insurance and a driver's license with proper endorsements similar to a motorcycle or moped.

Not all e-bikes and e-scooters are equal. Make sure you understand what you are purchasing and the legal requirements you will need to follow when using the device.

Know the answers to these questions before making your purchase:

• What class is this e-bike?
• What is the minimum age requirement for this model?
• What type of helmet is required for this device?
• What is this device’s top assisted speed?
• Does this e-bike have a throttle?
• Where will we be charging the device? Will this battery be supported by these plans?
• Is this bike certified (UL, IP, or similar)?
• Is my child legally allowed to ride this device? 
• Where is my child allowed to ride this device?
• Does this bike have speed-limiting options I can set as a parent?
• What happens if my child is in an accident – are they covered under our insurance? What if they hit another car? Would my car insurance cover the accident?

To report reckless e-bike or e-scooter behavior, please call Non-Emergency Dispatch at 503-629-0111 in the moment as the behavior is happening. 

You will be asked to provide the following information:

• Your full name and phone number
• Address where the concern is happening
• Description of the suspect
  • Clothing 
  • Age
  • Gender
  • Race
  • Weight
  • Height
• Description of the dangerous or reckless behavior

Please call 9-1-1 to report immediate threats to life or property, or crimes in progress.

As with all requests for police service, we cannot accept reports of dangerous e-bike or e-scooter behavior via email or social media.