E-bike products and scooters Cycling Without that Pesky Peddling | Page 14

Legal Status
The legal status of what determines an electric bicycle varies from country to country
so you need to check your own local laws. In general electric bicycles that are power
assisted are termed pedelecs making them distinct from the more powerful electric
mopeds and motorcycles. Because of this pedelecs are treated just like bicycles and
do not come under the more stringent laws aimed at electric motorcycles. However
full-power electric bicycles with large motors for example 500W with a throttle
control may well be considered under local laws to be an electric, moped or electric
motorcycle. If in doubt you might want to consider an electric scooter instead.