Rhode Island recently updated its electric bicycle law to define three classes of e-bikes. Under the current policy, Class 1 e-bikes are allowed on many shared-use bike paths, while Class 2 e-bikes are restricted, even though both types have the same maximum assisted speed of 20 miles per hour.

The only difference between these two bicycles is how the motor is activated:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only
• Class 2: Pedal-assist or throttle

Both types stop providing motor assistance at 20 mph.

Many transportation planners and states focus regulations on speed and rider behavior rather than motor activation, because speed differences are what most affect safety on shared paths.

Updating Rhode Island’s policy to treat Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes the same—while maintaining appropriate speed limits on shared paths—would:

• Improve fairness and clarity in the law
• Focus safety rules on actual risk factors like speed
• Make regulations easier to understand and enforce
• Support riders who rely on throttle assistance for accessibility or mobility

Several states already allow both Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on bike paths while maintaining safety through speed limits and local trail management.

As e-bikes continue to grow in popularity for transportation, recreation, and accessibility, Rhode Island has an opportunity to revisit this policy and ensure it reflects practical, safety-focused regulations.

We respectfully urge the Rhode Island General Assembly to review the current e-bike law and consider an amendment allowing Class 2 e-bikes (limited to 20 mph) to operate on shared-use bike paths under the same speed-based rules that apply to Class 1 e-bikes.

If you support fair, clear, and safety-focused e-bike regulations in Rhode Island, please sign this petition.