Canadian E Bike Laws

If you own an electric bike in Canada, it is important to understand the regulations and rules around electric bikes. Each province will have their own set of laws so it’s important you know how they vary. With different classes of electric bikes, there are a few more rules than a standard human-powered bike such as speed and age limits and motor size. Take a look at all you need to know about the rules and regulations surrounding ebikes in Canada.

 

Are Electric Bike Legal In Canada?

The short answer is yes, electric bikes are legal in Canada. But there are specific rules as to what classifies as an ebike. Below are universal rules across the provinces in Canada regarding electric bikes (excluding Prince Edward Island, as they have their own set of rules):

 

Motors are limited to 500 W output, and cannot travel faster than 32 kilometres per hour on motor power alone on level ground

E-Bikes must have steering handlebars and fully operable pedals. The bike cannot be solely controlled by the battery and the engine must disengage when the rider stops pedalling

It is prohibited to modify the vehicle’s motor to create speeds greater than 32 km/h (20 miles/h)

The terms “assist bicycle” or “power-assisted bicycle” (PABs) are the federal technical terms for an electric bicycle. This only applies to electric motor assist bicycles and excludes vehicles with internal combustion engines

All riders must wear a bicycle or motorcycle helmet at all times when riding

Specific ebike labelling is required stating that it meets all the necessary federal and provincial requirements 

A classified e-bicycle must have an attached motor that runs on electricity, not gas.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle_laws#Canada

 

British Columbia

An e-bike is identified as a "motor assisted cycle" (MAC) in British Columbia, which differs from electric mopeds and scooters, which are "limited-speed motorcycles." Motor assisted cycles must: have an electric motor of no more than 500 W; have fully operable pedals; not be capable of propelling the device at a speed greater than 32 km/h (20 mph)]. The engine must disengage when (a) the operator stops pedaling, (b) an accelerator controller is released, OR (c) a brake is applied. A driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance are all not required. Rider must be 16 years old or more, and a bike helmet must be worn.

E-bikes in British Columbia must comply with all standards outlined in Motor Assisted Cycle Regulation, BC Reg 151/2002.