Is that an e-bike or electric motorcycle? A New Washington law clarifies.

A new Washington state law clarifies the difference between electric bikes and electric motorcycles and creates different rules for riders, reports Becca Most in Government Technology.

"Under the law, e-bikes cannot go over 20 mph without the rider pedaling and cannot have a motor that produces more than 750 watts of power. If an e-bike fails to meet those requirements, it will legally be considered an electric motorcycle, which requires a license and the rider to be 16 years or older, per the statute." The law also states that Class 3 e-bikes, which have a motor that stops providing assistance when the rider reaches 28 mph, also cannot be operated by people under 16. 

A spokesperson from the Pierce County Sheriff's Office said that "Unsafe operation of these vehicles has resulted in increased risks to pedestrians, motorists and other lawful users of public spaces. In many cases, operators are juveniles who may not possess the required driver’s license, vehicle registration or equipment necessary for lawful operation on public roadways."