In the past, e-bikes were primarily recognized as pedal assist cruisers ridden by elderly customers. Today, e-bikes have evolved into stylish, electric, mopeds and are popular for commuters and adventure enthusiasts alike. For a lot of people, an electric bike is the closest thing they can get to riding an actual motorcycle.

Customers want to purchase off-road motorbikes that can also be driven as a street-legal commuter. But electric motos sit in a legal “gray area” as to whether they should be classified as bicycles or a type of motor vehicle.

Bikes like Super73 and ONYX do NOT come w/ VIN numbers, which means they are skirting the laws around classifications and NHTSA compliance, calling their products “e-bikes” or “mopeds” when technically they are unregistered, low-powered motor vehicles.

Terra Bikes can be street legal just like traditional gasoline-powered motorcycles AND they are fully off-road capable—unlike the Onyx purports to be. In fact, Terra Bikes have been designed specifically for street use and comply with all the regulations required for road use.

However, the specific regulations and requirements for street-legal electric motorcycles vary by country and region. In general, an electric motorcycle must meet certain safety and performance standards to be street legal, such as having proper lighting and reflectors, brakes, mirrors, and a horn.

In addition, some regions may require electric motorcycles to meet specific noise regulations or have a certain minimum speed capability. It’s important to check your local regulations and requirements before purchasing an electric motorcycle to ensure that it is street legal in your area.

Overall, electric motorcycles are becoming increasingly popular and offer many benefits over traditional gasoline-powered motorcycles, such as lower operating costs, reduced emissions, and quieter operation.

Can Electric Motorcycles Go on the Highway

Yes, electric motorcycles can go on the highway, but the specific capabilities of any given electric motorcycle will depend on factors such as its top speed, acceleration, and range.

Most electric motorcycles are capable of traveling at highway speeds, which typically range from 60 to 75 mph (96 to 120 km/h) in many countries. However, some electric motorcycles may have a lower top speed or slower acceleration compared to traditional gas-powered motorcycles, which may affect their performance on the highway.

Additionally, the range of an electric motorcycle can also affect its highway capabilities. If the motorcycle has a limited range, it may not be able to travel long distances on the highway without needing to stop and recharge its battery.

Overall, electric motorcycles can be suitable for highway use, but it’s important to consider the specific capabilities of the model you’re interested in and ensure that it meets your needs for performance and range on the type of highway you plan to ride on.

How do I register my electric motorcycle?

The process for registering an electric motorcycle may vary depending on your location, but generally, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Obtain a manufacturer’s statement of origin (MSO) or a title for the motorcycle. This is the document that proves you own the motorcycle and shows its legal origin.
2. Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or relevant transportation authority to find out what documents you need to register your electric motorcycle. Some common documents you may need include proof of insurance, a driver’s license, and a bill of sale or purchase agreement.
3. Complete any required forms or applications, and provide all necessary documents to the DMV or transportation authority. You will also need to pay any applicable fees for registration, taxes, and license plates.
4. Get your motorcycle inspected. Depending on your location, you may need to have your electric motorcycle inspected to ensure it meets local safety and emissions standards.
5. Once your motorcycle is registered and you have your license plate, you can legally ride your electric motorcycle on public roads.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements for registering an electric motorcycle may vary by location, so it’s a good idea to check with your local DMV or transportation authority to make sure you have all the necessary documents and information.

Do I need a motorcycle license to drive an electric motorcycle?

Yes, in most places, you will need a motorcycle license to legally drive an electric motorcycle on public roads. The requirements for obtaining a motorcycle license vary by location, but typically involve taking a written knowledge test and a practical skills test, such as a riding test or a safety course.

In some areas, an electric motorcycle may qualify for a lower-class license or endorsement, such as a moped license or a motorized bicycle license, if it meets certain speed and power limits. However, this varies by location and it’s important to check your local regulations to determine what type of license or endorsement you need to legally operate an electric motorcycle.

Regardless of the type of license or endorsement you need, it’s always a good idea to take a safety course or receive training on how to safely operate an electric motorcycle. This can help you learn the rules of the road, improve your riding skills, and ensure that you are able to safely and confidently ride your electric motorcycle.