What is an Electric Motor-Driven Cycle?

An electric motor-driven cycle typically has:

• Higher speeds than e-bikes (often over 30 mph)

• A more powerful motor (greater than 750 watts)

• No pedals or pedals that are not functional

Because of these features, they are not classified as bicycles under Arizona law.

Why this matters

If your vehicle is an electric motorcycle:

• The rider must be 16 or older and must have a valid driver’s license with motorcycle rider or "M" designation

• It must be registered with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and must display an ADOT-provided plate

• It must be insured

• Riders must obey motor vehicle laws, including helmet requirements for any rider under 18.

Know Before You Buy or Ride

Before buying your e-bike or e-moto, make sure you know what type of vehicle you have. Just because it looks like a bike doesn’t mean it's treated like one under the law.

When in doubt, check your manufacturer's specifications or contact Gilbert PD for questions.

An Electric bicycle is a bicycle or tricycle that is equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than seven hundred fifty watts.

E-bikes are divided into three classes:

License, registration, and insurance are not required for operating an e-bike that meets the requirements of any of the above three classes.

If the device does not comply with those definitions and requirements, such as not having pedals or a wheel that is, at least, sixteen inches in diameter, the device would either be a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle, depending on horsepower. 

 Knowing where you're permited to ride your e-bike or electric motorcycle is important. 

The use of e-bikes (class 1-3) or electric motorcycles in certain locations throughout Gilbert is strictly prohibited.

*Remember: E-bikes are never allowed where signage prohibits them. Town Code Sec. 62-103(b). 

Sidewalks, parks, and trails are shared spaces. Whether you're cruising to class or enjoying a weekend ride, being courteous to pedestrians and other cyclists keeps everyone safe and shows respect for our community.

Now that you know the difference between e-bikes and electric motorcycles, below are important reminders on how to ride these devices and potential consequences for unsafe or illegal riding. 

Ride Smart. Ride Respectfully.

• Be courteous and respectful to others on the road

• Treat pedestrians, drivers, and fellow riders with consideration. Gilbert is a shared space.

Follow the Rules of the Road

• Obey speed limits - riding any device that goes over 25 MPH? You shouldn’t be on the sidewalk.

• Stop at red lights and stop signs - look before moving and alternate with traffic.

• Use crosswalks - wait for the signal before crossing. Do not cross mid-street.

• Slow down at driveways and intersections - especially near schools and parks.

• Ride the right direction - never against traffic or on sidewalks in the opposite direction.

Share the Road Responsibly

• Ride in pairs, not packs. Street takeovers aren’t safe or legal.

• Move aside for pedestrians, give space and pass respectfully.

• Wear your gear. Helmets, lights, and bike reflectors help protect you and make you visible.

• Stop for police, if lights and sirens are on, pull over safely and immediately.

Important Reminder on Evading Police or Street Takeovers

Organizing or participating in street takeovers or fleeing from law enforcement is not just dangerous, it comes with serious consequences.

If you choose to break the law, here's what you’re risking:

• Arrest (misdemeanor or felony charges)

• Parent/guardian notification and liability

• Booking and potential transfer to juvenile detention

• Costly civil and criminal fines

• Bike impounded for a minimum of 20 days at your expense

• School officials, including your School Resource Officer, will be notified

Have questions on other motorized devices such as golf carts or scooters?

Visit our gilbertaz.gov/TransportationDevices for more information.

For further information on laws regulating the use of e-bikes or e-motos, visit:

• Arizona Revised Statutes Website
• Gilbert Municipal Code Website