Written by Adriane Phi, Educator Consultant – Violence and Injury Prevention Program.
Electric bikes and electric motorcycles are becoming a popular way for kids and teens to get around, from school commutes to after‑school activities and weekend adventures. They’re fast, convenient, and fun. With a little preparation, families can help young riders stay safe and confident! Whether you already have an e-bike or are considering one in the future, we’re highlighting the need-to-know safety topics for families: from choosing the right helmet, understanding Washington’s e‑ride laws, to knowing where kids can safely ride.
Understanding Your Ride
Different electric rides come with different rules. Knowing what your child is riding helps you choose the right gear and understand age requirements.
- Class 1 E‑Bike: Pedal assist only, up to 20 mph.
- Class 2 E‑Bike: Throttle + pedal assist, up to 20 mph.
- Class 3 E‑Bike: Pedal assist, up to 28 mph.
- Electric Motorcycle: More than 750 watts and not classified as a Class 1, 2, or 3 e-bike; follows motorcycle laws.
Washington’s definitions and rules: RCW 46.04.169:
Age requirements
- Class 1 & 2 e‑bikes: No minimum age
- Class 3 e‑bikes: Riders must be 16+
- Electric motorcycles: Riders must be 16+
Choosing the Right Helmet
Wearing a properly certified helmet is one of the most important safety steps. Certification labels show that a helmet has passed safety tests for impact protection.
For Class 1, 2, and 3 E‑Bikes:
Choose a helmet with a CPSC certification label at a minimum. Some helmets may also carry additional certifications, such as Snell or ASTM, which indicate additional safety testing.
- CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission): The U.S. standard for bicycle helmets.
- Snell: A nonprofit that tests helmets to higher performance standards.
- ASTM: An international organization that sets safety standards for sports equipment.
For Electric Motorcycles:
Choose a helmet with a DOT certification label at a minimum. Some helmets may also carry additional certifications, such as Snell or ECE, which indicate additional testing beyond DOT requirements.
- DOT: The U.S. Department of Transportation standard for motorcycle helmets.
- Snell: Indicates additional high‑impact testing beyond DOT requirements.
- ECE: A European safety standard used worldwide for motorcycle helmets.
Where Can I Get a Helmet?
There are many stores in King County that sell helmets and can help you find the right fit.
Find it here: King County Free and Low-Cost Helmet Guide.
Where Kids Can Ride
Bicycles can be ridden on sidewalks in some cities, but not in others. Many places allow Class 1 and 2 e‑bikes, while busy downtown areas often limit or ban sidewalk riding to keep pedestrians safe. Even where sidewalk riding is allowed, riders may need to go at walking speed, yield to people walking, or step off in crowded areas. Before riding on the sidewalk, it’s important to check your local laws. What’s allowed in one neighborhood might not be allowed just a few blocks away.
.
| LocATION | CLass 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 | E-Motorcycle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public road | yes | yes | yes | yes |
| Sidewalk | yes | yes | no | no |
| Shared-use path | yes | yes | no | no |
| Non-motorized trail | no | no | no | no |
| Freeway shoulder | yes | yes | yes | yes |
Rules for Electric Bikes
Electric bikes follow most of the same rules as other road users, with a few specifics:
- On roads, riders follow driver rules.
- On sidewalks, riders follow pedestrian rules.
- Cyclists may choose bike lanes, shoulders, paths, or travel lanes based on what feels safest.
- Stop signs may be treated as yield signs unless at railroad crossings or when a school bus stop arm is activated.
- Parents may not knowingly allow minors to break bicycle laws.
- At night, bikes need a white front light (visible from 500 ft) and a red rear reflector (visible from 600 ft).
- Riders must use hand signals for turns, stops, and slowing.
Rules for Electric Motorcycles
Electric motorcycles follow the same laws as gas‑powered motorcycles:
- Riders must have a motorcycle endorsement.
- A federally compliant helmet is required for drivers and passengers.
- Lane splitting is not allowed.
- Passengers must have their own seat and footrests.
Learn about the WA Department of Licensing Motorcycle Safety Program.
Helping Your Child Ride Safely
- Wear certified helmets.
- Choose routes with bike lanes or wide shoulders.
- Know your local riding laws for sidewalks and roads.
- Teach hand signals and nighttime visibility rules.
- Review expectations before kids ride independently.
- Check that brakes and lights are working properly before every trip.
Find more bike, electric bike and motorcycle safety tips: kingcounty.gov/bikesafety.
Originally published 9/24/26.