Background material
#ClimateAction Center E-Bike Studies
MassBike EBikes Page
https://www.massbike.org/ebikes
This MassBike page outlines the legal framework and regulations for electric bikes in Massachusetts, specifically defining Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes based on their motor type and 20 mph speed limit. It clarifies that while e-bike riders share the same rights as traditional cyclists, they are prohibited from riding on sidewalks and generally restricted from natural surface trails unless local ordinances allow it. The MassBike site provides information on a statewide voucher program designed to help low- and moderate-income residents afford e-bikes.
MassDOT Special Commission on Micromobility
The Special Commission on Micromobility is charged with producing a study that includes a review and recommendations.
Latest presentation: https://www.mass.gov/doc/special-commission-on-micromobility-meeting-presentation-101425/download
November summary:
The Special Commission on Micromobility, led by MassDOT, is developing a comprehensive framework to regulate and support micromobility devices in Massachusetts, with a final report due to the legislature by January 31, 2026. The commission’s recommendations focus on four key areas: identification, enforcement and safety, infrastructure, and growth.
Proposed Classification Schema
The core of the commission’s proposal is a tier-based classification system anchored in a device’s maximum design speed.
- Tier 0 (up to 20 MPH): Includes human-powered devices (bicycles, skateboards), mobility aids, and low-speed powered devices4.
- Tier 1 (21–30 MPH): Includes Class 3 e-bikes (up to 28 mph), motorized bicycles (mopeds), and other powered micromobility devices5.
- Tier 2 (31–40 MPH): Includes “Limited Use Motorcycles” and other powered cycles/devices6.
- Tier 3 (41+ MPH): These devices will be regulated as motorcycles.
Key Recommendations
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Micro-ID Decal: The legislature is encouraged to establish a working group to design a tamper-evident Micro ID Decal pilot8. This decal would serve as a light-touch identifier to bind devices to specific rules and assist with theft reclamation.
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Operational Requirements: The commission has drafted specific requirements for helmets, age limits, licensing, and insurance based on the device’s speed tier.
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Travel Allowances: A draft framework defines where devices can operate, such as prohibiting devices over 36 inches wide on sidewalks and shared-use paths regardless of tier.
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Safety Standards: New regulations would mandate specific UL electrical and battery safety standards (e.g., UL 2849 and UL 2271) for powered devices to mitigate fire and electrical hazards.
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Infrastructure & Integration: Recommendations include providing secure parking at MBTA/RTA hubs , expanding “Complete Streets” funding for physical separation of bike lanes, and establishing a default 20 MPH speed limit on shared-use paths.
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Data & Enforcement: The commission proposes including micromobility-involved crashes in MassDOT’s crash data system and authorizing automated enforcement for infractions like speeding or obstructing bike lanes.
Implementation Timeline
Following the November 2025 meeting to refine these draft recommendations, the commission intends to finalize the report in December 2025 and submit it to the legislature by the end of January 2026.