Do you know the rules for riding an e-bike in Ontario?

An image of a generic e-bike. (Pexels/Markus Spiske)

LaSalle police are reminding the public about the rules surrounding e-bikes in Ontario.

Police say e-bikes are a great way to get around, but they come with responsibilities under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act.

Here’s what every rider should know:

What qualifies as an E bike?

• Max motor power: 500 watts

• Max assisted speed: 32 km/h

• Pedals must be operable

Who can ride?

• Riders must be 16 years or older • Approved bicycle helmet required at all times

Where can you ride?

• Same rules as bicycles on most roads and bike lanes

• Not permitted on 400 series highways

• Sidewalk use depends on municipal bylaws

What you don’t need

• No driver’s licence

• No vehicle registration

• No licence plates

• No insurance

Town of LaSalle By-Law

In LaSalle, a “Wheeled Device” means any non-motorized device operating on one or

more wheels, including, not limited to, bicycles, roller skates, in-line skates,

roller skis, skateboards, electronically powered bicycles and scooters, and

non-motorized scooters but excludes a wheelchair or similar device,

powered or otherwise, used by an individual due to a disability, baby carriage

or cart, wagon, stroller, or other conveyance of like nature. A full list of rules in the town is listed online.