There is an increasing number of riders, especially youth, using devices that are promoted as “EBikes” but exceed the MD statutory definition of Electric Bicycle and are prohibited from trails and generally require license, registration and insurance for road use. If it can go faster than 20mph without pedaling, it is NOT an Electric Bicycle. These are generally called “EMotos”. BikeAAA is working with Anne Arundel Police, MDOT, AACPS and others to educate riders and parents about the different device types, safety, laws and regulations. You can help by sharing this information.
BikeAAA is participating in a Maryland Dept. of Transportation Micromobility Task Group focused on safety. You will find lots of useful information about laws and safety for E-Bikes, E-Motos and other devices at https://www.mdot.maryland.gov/tso/pages/Index.aspx?PageId=219
On October 29, 2026, following the tragic death of a 14 year old riding an e-moto on the B&A trail at Robinson Rd, Anne Arundel County Police released the program below and held a press conference that included AAC Rec&Parks, AACPS and BikeAAA.
I agree with your description of e-bikes. However the class 2 with a throttle allow manufactures to build bikes that will go faster than 20 mph and still advertise then as class 2. I prefer the classification of pedal assist and throttle assist for e-bikes.
James, we share your concern. There are bikes with a “Class 2” setting that limits the throttle but allows the user to change it to higher speeds. There are also many ways to tamper with bikes to enable higher speeds. These are no longer Electric Bicycles but we are advocating for legislation to tighten up device definitions to assure that these modified devices to longer meet the statutory definition of Electric Bicycle. Also we seek to add responsibility on sellers to properly label and disclose device type and legal requirements.
There is zero enforement of this on the trails. Sadly, we have already had one fatality. Enforcement is simple. If the bike is not pedal assist, it is illegal, pull them over, confiscate and require parents to pick up bike and pay fine. There are signs everywhere saying NO MOTORIZED VEHICLES. Let’s not wait for a baby to be injured when a moto bike crashes into a stroller. Please let me know how I can help be part of the solution to stop this dangerous practice.