Motorized Bicycles in West Virginia

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.

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 (E-Bikes)

In West Virginia, electric bikes are divided into 3 classes: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3.

• Class 1 e-bikes have a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and ceases to provide assistance when the bike reaches 20 mph. Class 1 e-bikes may be used anywhere traditional bicycles are allowed.
• Class 2 e-bikes have a throttle-controlled motor that can be used to propel the bike without pedaling. These e-bikes may be used anywhere traditional bicycles are allowed.
• Class 3 e-bikes have a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and ceases to provide assistance when the bike reaches 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes may only be used on roads, bike paths, and multi-use trails, and are not allowed on sidewalks.

Riders under the age of 14 are not permitted to operate Class 3 e-bikes. Riders are required to wear a helmet when operating any class of e-bike.

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.

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 West Virginia: