Motorized Bicycle Laws in Kansas

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Motorized Bicycles in Kansas

Generic Court GavelThere are many benefits to be had by using a motorized bicycle as your primary (or secondary) method of transportation. With rising gas prices, environmental concerns and a suffering economy, it’s no wonder more and more people are choosing them over other options.

Like most states, Kansas has different classifications of motorized bikes. Make sure you know which category your bike falls into, as each one has different requirements and regulations.

Bicycles and E-bikes

In order for a motorized bike to be considered a bicycle, it must:

  • Have 2 wheels (each being at least 14 inches in diameter.)
  • Have pedals designed for human propulsion of the vehicle.
  • Have an engine with no more than 1-brake horsepower, or 750 watts if electric.

Bicycles do not require tagging, registration or anything other than the normal bicycle traffic laws. You do not need a driver’s license in order to ride on public roads.

Note that tricycles (which have 3 wheels) also have the same regulations.

Mopeds

In order for a motorbike to be classified as a moped, it must:

  • Have 2 or 3 wheels.
  • Have pedals or a motor (or both).
  • Have a motor that produces no more than 3.5 brake hp, and is no bigger than 130 cc (if gas powered.)
  • Be unable to exceed 30 mph on level ground.

If your motorbike exceeds the specifications listed above, then it is probably a motorcycle and must follow all of the motorcycle regulations and requirements.

Unlike bicycles, mopeds must be registered and insured, and you must have a standard Kansas driver’s license (or a moped license) to drive one. If you are under 18 years old, you are always required to wear a helmet when riding.

Unlike some states, you are allowed to drive a moped on Kansas highways, provided you obey the following regulations:

  • If you are on a roadway that you cannot keep up with the normal speed of traffic, you must ride as close to the right side of the road as practical, unless you are preparing for a left turn.
  • You must remain seated in the normal operating position while riding.
  • You must wear eye protection.
  • If you want to carry a passenger, your moped must be equipped with a permanently attached seat designed for carrying passengers.

Scooters

Scooters regulations are very similar to that of motorcycles. However, scooters cannot have an engine that exceeds 5 horsepower.

You need a valid Kansas motorcycle license to drive a scooter. All of the regulations are the same as they are for motorcycles. And, like with mopeds, you must have a permanently attached seat in order to carry a passenger.

Registration

In Kansas, registration for both mopeds and scooters is just the same as it is for motorcycles. Please refer to your local DMV if you need more information about the motorcycle registration process. Typically, though, if you purchased your vehicle through a dealer then they will take care of the registration and titling for you.

Want a Motorized Bicycle?

We have a great selection of motorized bicycles for sale! While we recommend getting an e-bike, we also have motorized bicycle kits for sale and bicycle accessories for sale. All of our listings are highly reviewed, as you will see for yourself!