For a segment that has ‘evolved significantly,’ proposals include different classes for some e-bikes, registration and insurance for others

Ontario wants its residents’ say in changing regulations on e-bikes in the province. 

The Ministry of Transportation has issued a proposal called Modernizing Ontario’s Framework for Power-Assisted bicycles (E-Bikes). It seeks feedback on new rules that will narrow the definitions and apply stronger regulations to a transportation segment the province says has “evolved significantly” since first recognized under the Highway Traffic Act in 2009.

Key among the proposed changes is creating two classes for power-assisted bicycles and clarifying segments and requirements for electric mopeds, scooters and motorcycle-type vehicles. 

Currently, Ontario defines an e-bike as a power-assisted bicycle with two or three wheels, working pedals, handlebars and an electric motor and braking systems. They must have a maximum speed of 32 km/h, a maximum weight of 120 kilograms and an electric motor not exceeding 500 watts, among other technical points. They cannot be used on major highways and municipal sidewalks, and riders must be at least 16 and wear a helmet.

Two classes, clarification for others

Under the proposed changes, e-bikes would be categorized in two classes. Both Class 1 and Class 2 would keep the current power and speed parameters as well as other rules, but will also require an exposed frame without body panels, along with permanent and functional pedals or hand cranks.   

Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only (a 6 km/h “walk-assist” function is allowed), with a maximum weight of 55 kilograms. Class 2 e-bikes can be ridden with pedal assist or under full electric power, and have a maximum weight of 120 kg.

Electric mopeds, scooters and motorcycle-style vehicles, which fall under the current regulations for e-bikes, would be clearly defined and require riders to have an M or M2-L motorcycle license, registration and insurance.

Playing catch-up

The regulation of e-bikes varies among provinces and territories in Canada. With these proposed amendments, Ontario is playing catch-up to some provinces with stronger legislation. 

Quebec, for example, has many of the same rules as Ontario but also requires riders aged 14 to 17 to have a Class 6D moped license (those 18 and above do not need a license). The province also differentiates between e-bikes and electric scooters and motorcycles, the latter two of which require licensing, registration and insurance.

Like Ontario’s proposed rules, British Columbia also has two classes of e-bikes. The first is limited to 32 km/h and has a minimum rider age of 16. The “light” e-bike segment is limited to 25 km/h, with a minimum rider age of 14. 

Seven recommendations

E-bikes have become more prevalent in Canada over the past few years as a relatively inexpensive and environmentally friendly alternative for travel. But health officials are recognizing a rise in collisions and injuries associated with power-assisted bicycles.

In February last year, Ontario’s Office of the Chief Coroner, along with other experts in transportation, health and safety, put together a report called E-Bike Death Review, in which it studied the causes and effects of several fatal collisions.

The report lists seven recommendations for the Ontario government, which include separate classifications for e-bikes; licensing and registration requirements; enforcement of speed limits; and the collection of specific data on e-bike collisions, injuries and fatalities, among others.

Ontario’s e-bike regulations proposal closes to comments on June 8.