Do I need a license to ride one?

Electric bikes are still a fairly new concept in the US, so there is a lot of confusion about how the law views them. Federal law considers electric bicycles in the class as regular bicycles, provided they meet two conditions:

• the top speed in “electric only” mode is 20 miles per hour;
• the motor power must be no more than 750W.

NAKTO electric bicycles meet both of the federal requirements. We cap the top speed in “electric only” mode at 20 miles per hour, although you can of course go faster on your bike with pedal power if you wish. Our motors are smaller than 750W, which is well within federal limits.

Consequently, electric bikes do not need a special registration, license, or insurance to operate. Moreover, they enjoy the same privileges as regular bicycles, such as being allowed to travel in available bike lanes.

However, different states have their own special requirements regarding electric bike use. While most follow the federal lead, some do vary. If you have questions about how electric bikes work in your state, you can get in touch with us and we’ll point you in the direction to find out additional information for your state. For your own personal safety, we recommend helmet use and lights and reflecting gear, even if the law does not specifically require them.