E-Bike Holiday Safety Guide

The holiday season is here, and e-bikes are once again a popular gift idea. Whether you've already wrapped one up or you're still weighing the decision, the Dedham Police Department has important safety information that will help ensure a happy and safe holiday season.

ALREADY PURCHASED AN E-BIKE/MOTORIZED BIKE? Read This Before Wrapping!

Take these 5 critical steps to ensure this gift creates a great experience and not a dangerous one:

Before the First Ride:

1. Get a properly fitted helmet Recommended for all riders, REQUIRED for those under 17
2. Add lights and reflective gear MUST have a white front light and red rear light/reflector for night riding
3. Check the bike's classification Class 1, Class 2, or Motorized Bike—this determines where it can legally be ridden
4. Plan a supervised first ride Start in an empty parking lot, NOT on busy streets
5. Review Dedham's E-Bike Rules Know where you can go before taking it out for a spin! Visit our E-Bikes and Motorized Scooters page at www.dedham-ma.gov/ebikes

Where Can You Ride E-Bikes in Dedham?

• ALLOWED:
  • Public Roads
  • Bike Lanes
  • Shared Use Paved Paths
• NOT ALLOWED:
  • Sidewalks
  • Playing Fields
  • Dirt Paths
  • School Fields

STILL DECIDING? Before You Buy, Ask These Questions:

1. Is the recipient ready for this responsibility?

• Do they have experience riding traditional bikes in traffic/along roadways?
• Can they make quick decisions and adapt to road conditions?
• Will they consistently follow traffic laws without supervision?
• Are they likely to show off or take risks?

1. Do you understand what you're buying?

Massachusetts law recognizes two types of e-bikes and one category that requires licensing:

• CLASS 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph (motor stops assisting at 20 mph)
• CLASS 2: Throttle-actuated with small electric motor (can ride without pedaling), up to 20 mph
• MOTORIZED BIKE: Any e-bike exceeding 20 mph or modified beyond Class 1 and 2 specs

2. Are you prepared for the full cost?

The e-bike price tag is just the beginning:

• Quality helmet: $50-150
• Front white light and rear red light/reflector: $30-80
• Secure lock: $50-100
• Reflective gear: $20-50

Total additional cost (estimates): $150-$380

3. Does the recipient understand all the rules?

While Dedham doesn’t have a local bylaw or ordinance for e-bikes, users are still required to follow the State’s laws, including:

• MUST follow the same traffic laws as cars and traditional bikes
• MUST stay off sidewalks (unless local ordinance specifically permits)
• MUST stay off school fields, playing fields, dirt trails, and conservation areas
• MUST have lights when riding at night (white front, red rear)
• Riders under 17 MUST wear helmets (strongly recommended for all ages)
• Can be cited for "Operating to Endanger" if riding recklessly—riders under 18 may have bikes impounded

IMPORTANT WARNING: The 20 MPH Rule!

If the e-bike you're considering CAN go faster than 20 mph, it's classified as a MOTORIZED BICYCLE under Massachusetts law and requires:

• Valid driver's license
• Vehicle registration
• Moped license plate
• Helmet (required for all ages)

BUYER BEWARE - Many Class 3 e-bikes sold online fall into this category—check the specs carefully before purchasing!

DPD Tip: Make Safety Part of the Gift

If you've already purchased an e-bike or still plan to purchase one, we recommend pairing it with a "safety starter kit":

• Quality helmet
• Front and rear lights
• Bell
• Scheduled practice sessions with the recipient

Questions? We're Here to Help – Contact Us

Whether you've already purchased or you're still deciding, the Dedham Police Department is here as a resource. We want to make sure that everyone enjoys and travels safely through Dedham.

• Officer Neil Cronin, Dedham Police Department, Ncronin@Dedhamma.gov
• 450 Washington Street, Dedham, MA 02026
• E-Bike Information: www.dedham-ma.gov/ebikes

Stay safe and ride responsibly, Dedham Police Department

P.S. Do you know someone who's already riding an e-bike? Share this information with them. Many riders don't know about these specific restrictions on sidewalks, school fields, and trails. Increased awareness = increased safety!