New E-bike legislation in NJ

[Norm]

So eBikers got no class is what you’re saying?

 

[Patrick]

Yes, Utopian Society ?

 

[mtn]

And we will all go about our daily lives with no changes to our lifestyle or interactions with law enforcement.

If you are doing stupid stuff in traffic, you’ll be the exception to the rule.
If you are riding in the woods or down the sidewalk on any real ebikes, you’ll be unaffected.

 

[Dusty the Whale]

Only 1 person can help ebikes

 

[ChrisG]

So eBikers got no class is what you’re saying?

 

[jdog]

I asked the google: "will the new Jersey ebike law require motorcycle helmets"


Yes, New Jersey's recent e-bike law requires DOT-approved motorcycle helmets for all riders, not just standard bike helmets, for all e-bike classes, along with licensing, registration, and insurance for higher-powered models, treating them more like mopeds or motorized bicycles. Riders under 17 on Class 1 & 2 e-bikes need helmets, while all Class 3 operators must wear them, but the new legislation expands these rules significantly, mandating motorcycle helmets for everyone.
Key Helmet Requirements:

• All E-Bikes: Riders must wear a Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmet, the type used for motorcycles, not a standard bicycle helmet.
• Age 17 & Under: Mandatory helmet use for riders under 17 on Class 1 & 2 bikes.
• Class 3 E-Bikes: Helmets are required for all riders, regardless of age.

Other Major Changes (Effective January 2026):

• License & Registration: E-bikes are categorized (Class 1, 2, 3), and Class 3 (up to 28 mph) requires a driver's license, registration, and insurance.
• Testing: A knowledge and skills test for a specialized motorized bicycle license may be needed.
• Restrictions: E-bikes are generally banned from sidewalks, limited-access highways, and turnpikes.
• Sales: A temporary ban on online e-bike sales began January 20, 2026.

This legislation aims to align e-bikes with motorized vehicle regulations, requiring gear similar to mopeds for safety.

 

[jdog]

I also noted that Milford PA has strangely adopted NJ's misguided Law:

 

[Steve Vai]

I just rode the Demo Haul to the 7-11 without a helmet and wasn't arrested. I guess the silver lining in all of this is that you don't have to lock your bike anymore because the sketchy people that used to hang out in front of the quickie mart are all gone.

 

[SmooveP]

I also noted that Milford PA has strangely adopted NJ's misguided Law:

That can't be right? Maybe just reminding people who cross the bridge into NJ.

 

[Glenn Rides After 4 PM CST]

https://www.pinkbike.com/news/new-jersey-e-bikes-riders-will-require-licence-registration-and-insurance-under-newly-signed-law.html

Surprisingly some of the comments are in favor.

 

[Piston Honda]

https://www.pinkbike.com/news/new-jersey-e-bikes-riders-will-require-licence-registration-and-insurance-under-newly-signed-law.html

Surprisingly some of the comments are in favor.

I've always viewed PB comments as anti-ebike in general.

A very "ReAL mEn PedaL" crowd over there.

 

[Steve Vai]

I've always viewed PB comments as anti-ebike in general.

A very "ReAL mEn PedaL" crowd over there.

I think PinkBike is anti any bike in general 😂

 

[chunman528]

Found an article, not sure if it's 100% accurate but interest to see...

New Jersey Passes Most Restrictive E-Bike Law in the U.S. | PeopleForBikes

On January 19, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the most restrictive e-bike law in the country. The new law restricts the definition of “low-speed electric bicycle” to only Class 1 devices, and treats Class 2 and 3 ebikes as “motorized bicycles.” All e-bikes now require both registration...

www.peopleforbikes.org

If that's true then at least class 1 eBike does not require insurance.

 

[Santapez]

The law should have a qualifier that if your tires are 40mm or less you're exempt.

 

[Myles]

Apparently there’s a pause on the legislation to allow for a review

 

[JPark]

Can park rangers actually write people tickets?
Allaire is a place you need to be careful out of the summer season. A very crowded state park and the Park Police get bored in the off months.

 

[SmooveP]

Apparently there’s a pause on the legislation to allow for a review

Someone send the reviewers a link to this thread.

 

[SmooveP]

Can park rangers actually write people tickets?
Allaire is a place you need to be careful out of the summer season. A very crowded state park and the Park Police get bored in the off months.

In 40 years of riding MTB in NJ, I don't think I've ever seen a ranger on a trail. Or even outside of their vehicle. Ditto for the Park Police.

 

[christryon]

Union county leading the way by banning all low powered ebikes and moyorized scooters in all county parks. Looks like it is a crime now 😡

Frequently Asked Questions regarding the Ban on E-Bikes and E-Scooters in Union County Parks

Download Executive Order 2025-01 English | Spanish Frequently Asked Questions What does the Executive Order prohibit? Motorized vehicles — including low-speed e-bikes, motorized bicycles, e-scooter…

ucnj.org

 

[Steve Vai]

Union county leading the way by banning all low powered ebikes and moyorized scooters in all county parks. Looks like it is a crime now 😡

Frequently Asked Questions regarding the Ban on E-Bikes and E-Scooters in Union County Parks

Download Executive Order 2025-01 English | Spanish Frequently Asked Questions What does the Executive Order prohibit? Motorized vehicles — including low-speed e-bikes, motorized bicycles, e-scooter…

ucnj.org

Union County has been leading banning bikes for decades now.