Thoughts on using electric unicycles?

[redpoint5]

I don't see why bicycles are allowed on streets without a license anyhow if they consider that to be a vehicle that must obey traffic laws.

[hayden55]

Originally Posted by JSH

The limits for an electric bicycle are 750 watts (1 HP) and 20 mph on flat ground with a 170 lb rider. That is federal law 15 U.S. Code § 2085. Anything more is a motor vehicle

Some states allow up to 28 mph but the federal law is clear on the matter. "This section shall supersede any State law or requirement"

I'm confused on what is the difference is between an electric-bicycle and a motorized bicycle. Here locally its 28 mph while simultaneously peddling for an e-bike, yet a 49cc motorized bicycle can go typically around 40 mph and has no actual speed limit just a size restriction on engine and be legal as well. Per 10 years ago when I rode one you were just expected to obey traffic laws. Insurance wasn't required nor registration (city based).

[redpoint5]

JSH was quoting federal law, which the states are under that authority. It's just like recreational marijuana is illegal federally, and so illegal, regardless of state law.

As I've always said, you resolve these contradictions by limiting the power of the federal government to only that absolutely necessary. It seems to me vehicle license, registration, and insurance laws should fall under state authority, but we've been trying to grow the federal government as quickly as possible for some time now. Both political parties do it when they are in office, so the parties are indistinguishable on this most important aspect.

[JSH]

Originally Posted by hayden55

I'm confused on what is the difference is between an electric-bicycle and a motorized bicycle. Here locally its 28 mph while simultaneously peddling for an e-bike, yet a 49cc motorized bicycle can go typically around 40 mph and has no actual speed limit just a size restriction on engine and be legal as well. Per 10 years ago when I rode one you were just expected to obey traffic laws. Insurance wasn't required nor registration (city based).

According to Federal law that 49cc motorized "bicycle" is a motorcycle. Mopeds are limited to 30 mph

https://www.nhtsa.gov/interpretations/nht79-455

While insurance may not be required it is a good idea to have it for liability reasons. That is the problem with illegal motorcycles pretending to be bicycles - they are impossible to insure without a VIN.

[Xist]

Originally Posted by JSH

The limits for an electric bicycle are 750 watts (1 HP) and 20 mph on flat ground with a 170 lb rider.

So, if I weigh more than 170 pounds and want to ride 20 MPH, I need to pedal?

I didn't get to 233 pounds by pedaling!

With two pounds of gear and clothing I would weigh 50% more than 170 pounds, so maybe an electric bicycle would top out at 13 MPH under my ever-expanding sitting-down-side.

The BMI's bad math says I should weigh 150-190.

I think that I would look awesome at 190. My ideal weight is borderline overweight?

I do not want to weigh 170 pounds. I was frequently told that I was too skinny at 153 and I always feel surprised when I see pictures from back then.

Somewhere in between would be great, though.

By the way, the Army standard for my height, age, and gender is 148-214 pounds, 34 push-ups, 38 sit-ups, and two miles in 18:18.

I would probably have an easier time reaching 214 pounds if I met the rest of the standards.

[hayden55]

Originally Posted by JSH

According to Federal law that 49cc motorized "bicycle" is a motorcycle. Mopeds are limited to 30 mph

https://www.nhtsa.gov/interpretations/nht79-455

While insurance may not be required it is a good idea to have it for liability reasons. That is the problem with illegal motorcycles pretending to be bicycles - they are impossible to insure without a VIN.

Uhh...
Explain the difference between a moped and a motorized bicycle.

On the other hand, I also had a Honda Scooter (metropolitan) which went 40mph as well with nothing required.

Didn't mean to hijack the thread but yeah 49cc below and electric vehicle laws make not a lick of sense when all present in the same area.

[Grant-53]

The main issue limiting top speed is wind drag while acceleration is a function of weight for a given amount of power. I suspect that the federal standard has to do with fitness for use. The states determine classes for registration. A VIN helps in determining ownership. The laws are changing especially for e-bikes. Some states treat all motorized bicycles the same, limiting only speed. Some have different laws for electrics; the 50 cc limit is common around the world. A human powered vehicle is not a motor vehicle but like pedestrians we are expected to obey traffic control measures.

[JSH]

Originally Posted by hayden55

Uhh...
Explain the difference between a moped and a motorized bicycle.

One is a bicycle and the other a motor vehicle.

Less than 20 mph is a bicycle. 20-30 mph AND less than 5 hp is a moped. Over 30 mph OR 5 hp is a motorcycle.

Over 20 mph requires a VIN.

[hayden55]

Ah okay. I more or less just wondered because none of them require a license or insurance. Gotta be the fastest guy in the DWI drags, ya know? lol

[hayden55]

Originally Posted by Grant-53

The main issue limiting top speed is wind drag while acceleration is a function of weight for a given amount of power. I suspect that the federal standard has to do with fitness for use. The states determine classes for registration. A VIN helps in determining ownership. The laws are changing especially for e-bikes. Some states treat all motorized bicycles the same, limiting only speed. Some have different laws for electrics; the 50 cc limit is common around the world. A human powered vehicle is not a motor vehicle but like pedestrians we are expected to obey traffic control measures.

How are the laws in NY? I've heard you guys are extremely anti e-vehicle(2wheel)