E-bikes now considered bicycles

Nebraska’s definition of a bicycle now includes those with electric motors under a bill passed by senators Feb. 20.

Introduced by Papillion Sen. Jim Smith, LB95 adds electric-assist bicycles, or e-bikes, to Nebraska’s definition of bicycles. The new definition includes two- or three-wheeled vehicles that can be propelled by pedaling or by an electric motor no larger than 750 watts, producing up to one brake horsepower, with a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour.

Senators passed the bill on a 48-0 vote.