Motorized Bicycle Laws in West Virginia

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Motorized Bicycles in West Virginia

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.

The State of West Virginia does not have any laws specifically designed for motorized bicycles. Therefore, to be safe we recommend following the laws for mopeds, as they are the closest relative of motorized bikes.

Electric Bicycles

West Virginia doesn’t appear to have any laws in place specifically for electric bikes, so we’ll refer to the federal laws.

Federally, e-bikes are defined as bicycles with an electric motor that produces 750 watts or less, and has a top speed of 20 MPH on a flat surface.

Motorized Bicycles

In West Virginia, motorized bicycles and mopeds are defined as motor-driven cycles that:

  • Has 2 or 3 wheels.
  • Has foot pedals to assist with propulsion.
  • Has a motor that produces no more than 2 brake horsepower, and has a displacement no bigger than 50 CC.
  • Has a maximum speed of 30 MPH on a level surface.
  • Has an automatic drive system that does not require manual clutching or shifting.

If your bike exceeds the above specifications then it is considered a motorcycle, and you must follow all of the motorcycle laws and requirements.

Other Requirements

You must get your moped titled and registered through your local DMV Office if you want to drive on public roads. The process is very similar to registering and titling a regular passenger vehicle or motorcycle.

Additionally, there are a number of other requirements to follow in order to drive on public roads:

  • You must wear an appropriate helmet when riding, even as a passenger.
  • The handlebars can’t be more than 15 inches higher than the seat.
  • You have to ride in a proper seated position.
  • You can’t carry a passenger unless the moped is designed for it, such as a passenger compartment or another seat that is permanently attached.
  • It must have a rear-view mirror affixed so that it is easily visible while driving.
  • You must obey all of the other standard driving laws.

Scooters

In West Virginia, scooters must follow all of the same laws and regulations as mopeds. Likewise, if they exceed the specifications for a moped then they are considered a motorcycle.

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!