Sheriff's Office

E-Bike Safety

With e-bikes becoming an increasingly popular way to get around, the Washoe County Sheriff's Office is committed to promoting safe riding practices to help protect riders, drivers, and pedestrians in our community.

Understanding the laws and best practices for bicycles and e-bikes helps ensure everyone shares the road safely.

Helmets

  • Bicycles and E-Bikes: While Nevada law does not require bicyclists to wear helmets, it's a smart choice. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 85% when worn correctly. Riding without a helmet could also complicate legal or insurance matters after a crash. 
  • Motorcycles, Mopeds, and Trimobiles: Helmets are required under Nevada law for motorcycles, mopeds, and trimobiles. They must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) safety standards, which include adequate padding, riveting straps, and a DOT certification label. 

Rules of the Road

  • Same Laws as Motor Vehicles: Under NRS 484B.763, bicycles, e-bikes, and motorcycles must follow the same traffic laws as cars. This includes obeying traffic lights, stop signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, and signaling. Violations may result in citations.
  • Where You Can Ride: NRS 484A.4695 allows e-bikes to operate in the same places as bicycles, including streets, highways, bike lanes, bike paths, and shared-use trails. 
  • Local Rules: Washoe County Code 95.200 requires riders to travel at reasonable and prudent speeds, taking into account terrain, conditions, equipment, and the safety of all other users. 

Riding Together

  • Side-by-Side: You may ride two abreast when safe to do so. In traffic, ride single file for courtesy and safety. 
  • Sharing One Bike: NRS 484B.770 prohibits carrying multiple riders on a bike unless it has the proper number of seats. Violations include: 
    • NRS 484B.7701 - Fail to ride bicycle astride permanent/regular seat ($93)
    • NRS 484B.7702 - Multiple riders on bicycle not so equipped ($93)
    • Repeated juvenile violations may affect eligibility for a driver's license later. 

E-Bike vs. Motorcycle

  • Electric Bicycles: Defined in NRS.484B.017, e-bikes come in three classes and must have fully operable pedals. 
  • Motorcycles: If the vehicle does not have operable pedals, is equipped with foot pegs, and is powered by a motor, NRS 486.041 classifies it as a motorcycle. Examples include Surron, Talaria, ERide Pro, and 79Bike. These require a valid motorcycle license and registration. 

By knowing the rules, making safe choices, and respecting others on the road, we can all help keep Washoe County a safer place to ride.