Motorized Bicycles in Montana

There 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.

There are only a few differences between the different classifications and regulations for motorized bikes in Montana.

Motorized Bicycles

In Montana, a motorized bicycle or moped is any vehicle that meets the following requirements:

• Has 2 or 3 wheels.
• Has a maximum speed of 30 MPH on level ground.
• Has a motor that is no bigger than 50 CC, and produces no more than 2 brake horsepower.

Any motorbike that exceeds the above specifications is likely considered a motorcycle.

You must obey the following laws while riding a moped:

• You must have a headlight, taillight and tail reflector when driving at night.
• You must always wear a helmet if you are under 18 years old (though it is still recommended if you are over 18.)
• You must have a working horn that can be heard from at least 200 feet away.
• If using a gas-powered motor, you must have a working muffler.
• You must drive as far to the right side of the road as practical on public roadways.
• You must obey all other traffic laws.

Moped Registration and Licensing

Unless a moped also has pedals that can propel the vehicle, it must be registered in order to be driven on public roadways. Once registered, you must affix your license plate on your moped (as you would a motorcycle.)

Unlike with scooters and motorcycles, you do not need a motorcycle endorsement to ride a moped. However, you do still need a valid driver's license and proof of insurance.

Electric Bicycles (E-Bikes)

In Montana, e-bikes are considered bicycles and are subject to the same laws and regulations as traditional bicycles. This includes using lights and reflectors at night and following traffic laws.

Montana classifies e-bikes into three categories based on their power output and top assisted speed:

1. Class 1: E-bikes that provide pedal-assist only, with a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
2. Class 2: E-bikes that have a throttle, with a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
3. Class 3: E-bikes that provide pedal-assist only, with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph.

Riders under 18 years of age are required to wear a helmet.

It's important to note that local regulations may vary, so it's always best to check with your local authorities for more information.

Scooters

In Montana, scooters must be titled and registered as you would with a motorcycle. In order to register your scooter, you visit your local county treasurer's office and:

• Complete a title application.
• Pay a permanent registration fee of $53.25 to be street legal, or $114.50 to be street and off-highway legal.
• Pay a Motorcycle Safety Fee of $16.
• Pay $5 to the Montana Highway Patrol Salary and Retention Fund.

Additionally, you must obtain a motorcycle endorsement through the Montana MVD (Motor Vehicle Division) in order to ride on public roadways.

In order to get your motorcycle endorsement, you must:

• Be at least 16 years old (or 15 years old if you pass a driver's education course.)
• Have a valid Montana driver's license (or be in the process of getting one.)
• Pass a motorcycle knowledge test.
• Pass a motorcycle driving test.
• Pay an an endorsement fee of 5o cents.

If you have any additional questions, we recommend that you contact the Title and Registration Bureau, at (406) 444-3661.

Don't Have a Motorcycle License?

We've got you covered. Click the button below to see a list of e-bikes that don't require any license or registration to ride on public roads in Montana: