E-Bike Riders, Pump the Brakes: New Illinois Law Just Dropped

E-Bike Riders, Pump the Brakes: New Illinois Law Just Dropped

Getty Images

Illinois is putting new statewide rules in place for electric bikes, scooters and other "micromobility" devices beginning January 1st, 2027, following Governor JB Pritzker's signing of Senate Bill 3484.

Read More: Illinois Cottage Food Laws: What You Can and Can’t Sell 

The law established consistent regulations for with this law:

  • where devices can be ridden
  • how fast they can travel
  • how old riders must be

Supporters say the changes are absolutely necessary as increasingly powerful electric bikes and scooters become more common on Illinois streets, sidewalks and bike paths.

E-Bike Riders, Pump the Brakes: New Illinois Law Requires Licenses

Unsplash
Unsplash

One of the biggest changes involves high-speed e-bikes capable of traveling faster than 28MPH.  These vehicles will be regulated similarly to motorcycles, meaning riders will need a driver's license, insurance, a title and state registration.

High-speed e-bikes must also be operated on roads.

The law also created age requirements for lower-speed e-bikes

  • Riders must be at least 15 years old to operate 1 pedal-assist bikes and Class 2 motor-powered bikes that reach up to 20MPH.
  • Riders must be 16 years old to operate pedal-assist e-bikes capable of reaching 28MPH.  Low-speed e-bikes can be used on streets, bike lanes, paths and trails, but not sidewalks.

Electric scooters will also face new restrictions

  • High-speed scooters that reach 50MPH will be limited to 28MPH
  • Can be operated by riders 16+ on designated paths, bike lanes, and roads
  • Low-speed scooters with top speeds of 20MPH will be available to riders 16+

Read More: Illinois Drivers: Don’t Pass a School Bus With Its Stop Arm Out 

The legislation received bipartisan support and backing from municipal and law enforcement organizations.  Supporters believe a statewide framework will make regulations easier to understand and enforce.

Violations could result in fines, and police may confiscate and impound devices.  Riders will also remain subject to existing traffic laws and penalties.

LOOK: The biggest scams today and how you can protect yourself from them

Using data from the BBB Scam Tracker Annual Risk Report, Stacker identified the most common and costly types of scams in 2022.

LOOK: Iconic buildings from every state

Stacker compiled a list of 50 iconic buildings in each state across America, ranging from modest homesteads to mesmerizing skyscrapers.  

Gallery Credit: Stacker