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HB 1084

E-Bike Definitions/Local Safety Regulation.

2025-2026 Session Introduced by Eric Ager and 14 co-sponsors

Allows local governments to regulate e-bikes (classes, speeds, paths) while standardizing definitions and adding under-18 Class 3 helmet rules.

Passed 1st Reading
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Bill Summary · HB 1084

Summary of HB 1084 (2025 Session) – North Carolina

Title: E-Bike Definitions/Local Safety Regulation

Purpose
- Clarify the definition of electric assisted bicycles (e-bikes) and authorize local governments to regulate their use for safety and traffic management purposes.

Key Provisions

1) Definitions (G.S. 20-4.01(7a))
- Rewrites the definition of “Electric Assisted Bicycle” to align with three class structure:
- Class 1: Motor provides assistance only when pedaling; ceases at 20 mph.
- Class 2: Motor can propel without pedaling; ceases at 20 mph.
- Class 3: Motor provides assistance only when pedaling; ceases at 28 mph.
- All e-bikes must have two or three wheels, a rider seat, fully operable pedals, a motor ≤ 750 watts, and meet class-specific speed limits.

2) Statewide Operation (G.S. 20-171.3)
- E-bikes (as defined) may operate on all roadways, bicycle lanes, and shared-use paths, with exceptions noted in other statutes (G.S. 160A-300.2 and G.S. 153A-245.1).
- Youth helmet requirement: Persons under 18 operating or riding Class 3 e-bikes must wear a helmet that meets federal safety standards.

3) Local Regulation – Municipal Authority (G.S. 160A-300.2)
- Cities may regulate e-bikes within municipal limits, including:
- Restricting use of certain classes on multiuse paths, sidewalks, or trails.
- Establishing speed limits on greenways or shared-use paths.
- Helmet requirement for under-18 operators/riders on Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes is permitted.
- Cities may impose penalties for violations of these local regulations.

4) Local Regulation – County Authority (G.S. 153A-245.1)
- Counties may regulate e-bike use under the framework of G.S. 160A-300.2.
- The bill clarifies that county regulation does not repeal or restrict city authority.

5) Appropriation for Education and Public Awareness
- $100,000 in nonrecurring Highway Fund money for 2026–2027 to the Department of Transportation, Division of Integrated Mobility.
- Purpose: Develop educational materials and conduct a public awareness campaign on proper use and safety of e-bikes.

Effective Date
- The act becomes law upon signature and applies to all e-bike riders and passengers on or after that date.

Potential Impact

  • Standardizes e-bike classification and speed expectations across the state, aiding enforcement and safety.
  • Expands local regulatory power for cities and counties to tailor rules on bike lanes, sidewalks, greenways, and shared-use paths.
  • Introduces a helmet requirement for riders under 18 on Class 3 e-bikes, potentially reducing head injuries for higher-speed e-bikes.
  • Facilitates targeted local rules (e.g., restricting certain classes on specific paths or setting path-specific speed limits).
  • Allocates funding for public education to promote safe e-bike operation.

Who is Affected
- E-bike riders and passengers (especially under 18 for helmet provisions and Class 3 users).
- Local governments (cities and counties) authorized to regulate e-bikes locally.
- Public safety and transportation education programs via the Department of Transportation.

Notes
- The bill reiterates that existing authority of cities and counties is preserved and clarified to prevent conflicts with state regulation.
- The 750-watt motor cap and mile-per-hour limits align with common e-bike class standards used in other jurisdictions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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