E Bike Safety

E-Bikes are becoming more common on our roads, sidewalks, and throughout Satellite Beach. With that increase, the Satellite Beach Police Department is seeing more unsafe operation and more complaints from residents. 

Many families unintentionally buy devices that look like E-Bikes but are legally classified as E-Motos. That difference determines where they can be ridden and whether a license, registration, or tag is required. We don’t want any parent to spend hundreds of dollars on a gift their child can’t safely—or legally—use.

Florida House Bill 243 is also proposing stricter regulations, including speed limits, wattage restrictions, and licensing requirements for certain electric bikes capable of higher speeds. Understanding these distinctions now can help prevent frustration later.

Before you buy:

E-Bikes
•MUST have pedals
•Have a small electric motor
•Max assisted speed: 28 mph
•Allowed on roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks

E-Motos (Electric Motorcycles)
•No pedals
•Often exceed 40+ mph
•Not allowed on sidewalks, bike lanes, or public roads without proper licensing
•Require a driver’s license, registration, and a tag to operate legally

The most common problem we see is parents purchasing an E-Moto thinking it’s an E-Bike-only to find out afterward that it cannot be used the way they intended.

Parents:
The Satellite Beach Police Department encourages you to talk with your children about:
•Stopping at stop signs
•Right-of-way rules
•Riding safely in traffic
•ALWAYS wearing a helmet