BARNESVILLE, Ohio (AVC News) – The Barnesville Police Department and Village of Barnesville is reminding residents to know the rules before riding an electric bicycle or electric scooter.
Under Ohio law, an e-bike must have fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. There are three classes of e-bikes, with assisted speeds ranging from 20 to 28 miles per hour. Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike, and helmets are required for Class 3 riders and passengers.
Police also remind riders that e-bikes may be used on sidewalks in Barnesville only when the motor is not engaged. Devices without fully operable pedals may not qualify as e-bikes under Ohio law and can be subject to different rules.
Electric scooters and other low-speed devices are classified separately and have their own regulations. Riders are encouraged to follow posted signs, local ordinances and Ohio law.
The department also recommends wearing a helmet, using proper lighting at night, obeying traffic signals, yielding to pedestrians, avoiding distractions and never riding under the influence.
Parents are encouraged to check their child’s device, including its class, motor power, maximum speed and where it can legally be ridden. Police say knowing the rules can help riders stay safe and share the road responsibly.
