05/27/2026
PUBLIC SAFETY MESSAGE
For everyone’s safety, we want to help clarify the differences between electric bicycles (E-Bikes) and electric motorcycles or electric dirt bikes. Under Tennessee law, many electric dirt bikes are considered “off-highway motor vehicles” because they are designed primarily for off-road use. Tennessee law generally prohibits off-highway motor vehicles from being operated on public streets, sidewalks, greenways, and other public-use areas except in very limited circumstances. Additionally, many popular electric dirt bikes do NOT meet Tennessee ‘s legal definitions of an electric bicycle because they may: .exceed the 750-watt power limit .reach speeds beyond lawful e-bike classifications .lack fully operable pedals .be manufactured and marketed as off-road motorcycles rather than bicycles. Tennessee recognizes three classifications of electric bicycles: .
Class1 E-Bike: Pedal-assist only (no throttle) . Motor assistance stops at 20 mph .Generally permitted where traditional bicycles are allowed .
Class 2 E-Bike: .Equipped with a throttle and may operate without pedaling .Motor assistance stops at 20 mph .Generally permitted on public roads and bike lanes where bicycles are allowed .
Class 3 E-Bike: .Pedal-assist only .Motor assistance stops at 28 mph .Must be equipped with a speedometer .May be restricted from certain bike paths and recreational trails unless specifically authorized.
Helmet and Age Requirements: Riders and passengers under 16 years old on Class 1 and Class 2 e-bi9kes are required to wear a bicycle helmet. Operators of Class 3 e-bikes must be at least 16 years old .All riders and passengers on Class 3 e-bikes are required to wear helmets regardless of age.
Many electric dirt bikes and high-powered electric motorcycles do not qualify under any of these e-bike classifications and therefore are not lawful for operation on city streets and roadways, sidewalks, paved greenway trails, bicycle and pedestrian paths, public parks and recreational areas.
These laws are intended to protect both riders and the public. Operators of high-speed electric motorcycles face a significant risk of serious injury in traffic crashes, and pedestrians using sidewalks and greenways can also be placed at risk when these vehicles are operated in shared-use spaces. Parents are strongly encouraged to closely supervise where these vehicles are ridden and ensure they are operated only in locations where their use is lawful and safe.
Our goal is education, safety, and accident prevention so everyone can safely enjoy our roadways, parks, and community spaces
