The lines between electric bikes and electric motorcycles are blurring, creating a regulatory and safety challenge in urban and suburban areas. Recent incidents in Williston, Vermont, highlight the need for clearer distinctions and enforcement as these vehicles become more common.
In May 2026, a resident in Williston reported two students racing electric motorcycles at dangerous speeds near Williston Central School. The incident, which nearly resulted in harm to a pet, sparked concern among local residents. Similar incidents are occurring across the Burlington area and nationwide, driven by confusion over the legal status of these vehicles.
The Distinction Between E-Bikes and E-Motos
The primary difference between e-bikes and e-motorcycles (or e-motos) lies in their speed and power. E-motos can reach speeds of up to 65 mph and have no engine horsepower limits, while most e-bikes top out at 20 mph. Visually, e-motos lack pedals, a key identifier. Current state laws prohibit e-motos from sidewalks and recreation paths, but enforcement remains inconsistent.
Safety and Regulatory Concerns
Local Motion, a Burlington-based bike and pedestrian advocacy group, held a meeting to address the issue. Jack Evans of Local Motion noted that e-motos are often marketed to children with an emphasis on speed and fun, misleadingly positioning them as e-bikes. This marketing obscures their legal status as motorcycles, subject to the same regulatory restrictions as cars.
Burlington resident Hank Prensky described seeing groups of teenagers riding illegal e-motos at high speeds on the Burlington Greenway, a waterfront bike path. Attempts to engage with these riders have been met with hostility. Officer Jareco Coulumbe of the Milton Police Department reported that e-moto riders are causing damage in parks and clashing with pedestrians on sidewalks.
Off-Road E-Motos and Trail Damage
Off-road e-motos are also encroaching on mountain bike trails, causing damage and posing safety risks. The Vermont Mountain Bike Association released a statement in May 2026 clarifying the legal status of different Electric vehicles. They emphasized that e-motos are never allowed on non-motorized natural surface trails, as they are categorically different from e-bikes and cause significant trail damage.
Advocacy and Education
Local Motion is calling for consistent enforcement of existing laws that prohibit e-motos from sidewalks and bike paths, as well as enforcement of age minimums, licensure, and insurance requirements. They are also ramping up public education efforts to help people distinguish between e-bikes and e-motos. Jason Stuffle, who attended the Local Motion meeting, suggested developing designated locations for safe e-moto riding.
The resident who reported the incident in Williston agreed, stating that e-motos should be treated as off-road motorcycles with electric engines. He emphasized the need for safe riding locations, acknowledging that these vehicles are here to stay.
