Cars driving on a road next to a bike path with cyclists riding along it
Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

All Things E-Devices

E-bikes, e-scooters, and other electric devices are becoming more common across the Greater Madison area. They can be affordable, convenient, and fun ways to get around—especially for people who do not drive, cannot afford a car, or simply want another transportation option.

Whether you're thinking about buying an e-device or already own one, this webpage will help you identify your device, understand where it can legally be ridden, and learn how to ride safely.

Identifying Your E-Device

Wisconsin law defines several types of e-devices, including e-bikes (three classes), e-scooters and electric personal assistive mobility devices (EPAMDs). 

While many of these devices look similar, they are not all classified the same way. In fact, some devices marketed or labeled as e-bikes or e-scooters do not meet Wisconsin's legal definitions. 

Knowing what type of device you have is the first step to understanding which rules apply. 

To identify your device, ask these questions:

  1. Does it have a throttle?

    A throttle is usually a twist grip or thumb lever that lets the motor provide power without pedaling.

  2. What is its top speed?

    The top speed is the fastest the device can travel using motor power.

  3. How much does it weigh?

    This question only applies to e-scooters. 

  4. What is the motor wattage?

    Motor wattage measures how much power the motor can produce. This information is often listed on the manufacturer's website or in the owner's manual.

    This question only applies to e-bikes. 

Different Types of E-Devices

There are many different types of electric devices, including some that are not specifically defined under Wisconsin law. Below is an overview of the most common device types.

E-Bikes

E-bikes are bicycles with working pedals and an electric motor that is 750 watts or less. Wisconsin law divides e-bikes into three classes based on how the motor works and the maximum speed it can assist you.

Class 1 E-Bikes

Class 1 e-bikes only provide power while you are pedaling. They have the following characteristics:

  • Do not have a throttle.
  • The motor stops providing power when the bike reaches 20 mph.
  • Do not have a maximum weight limit.
Class 2 E-Bikes

Class 2 e-bikes can be powered by the motor without pedaling. They have the following characteristics:

  • Have a throttle.
  • The motor stops providing power when the bike reaches 20 mph.
  • Do not have a maximum weight limit.
Class 3 E-Bikes

Class 3 e-bikes only provide power while you are pedaling. They have the following characteristics:

  • Do not have a throttle.
  • The motor stops providing power when the bike reaches 28 mph.
  • Do not have a maximum weight limit.

Note: Under Wisconsin law, Class 3 e-bikes may only be ridden by people age 16 or older.

Other E-Devices

E-Scooters

An e-scooter is a device with handlebars and an electric motor. It can be powered by the motor, human power, or both. 

Under Wisconsin law, e-scooters have the following characteristics:

  • Have a throttle.
  • Motor-powered speed is limited to 20 mph.
  • Must weigh less than 100 pounds.
  • Do not have a maximum motor wattage.

Note: Under Wisconsin law, an e-scooter is not considered an electric personal assistive mobility device (EPAMD), motorcycle, motor bicycle, e-bike, or moped.

Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Devices (EPAMDs or Segways)

An electric personal assistive mobility device (EPAMD), often called a Segway, is a self-balancing device with two side-by-side wheels that is designed to carry one person.

Under Wisconsin law, EPAMDs have the following characteristics:

  • Have a throttle.
  • Motor-powered speed is limited to 15 mph.
  • Do not have a maximum weight limit.
  • Do not have a maximum motor wattage.
Micromobility Devices

Because micromobility devices are not currently defined under Wisconsin law, MPO staff recommend defining them as devices with the following characteristics:

  • Have a throttle.
  • Motor-powered speed is limited to 28 mph.
  • Do not have a maximum weight limit.
  • Do not have a maximum motor wattage.

Check your community's local ordinances to see whether micromobility devices are defined. Definitions and rules may vary from one community to another.

E-Motos

Many devices marketed as e-bikes or e-scooters are actually e-motos. E-motos are not currently defined under Wisconsin law. 

MPO staff recommend defining e-motos as devices with the following characteristics:

  • Have a throttle.
  • Are capable of speeds greater than 28 mph.
  • Do not have a maximum weight limit.
  • Do not have a maximum motor wattage.

Check your community's local ordinances to see whether e-motos are defined. Some communities may classify e-motos as motorcycles, while others may not. Definitions and rules vary from one community to another.

Where Can I Ride My Device?

  • A blue electric bicycle with a front basket and a headlight.

    Bikes & E-Bikes

    Bicycles and Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes can generally be ridden in the same places. Under Wisconsin law:

    Sidewalks: Prohibited by the state. Local communities may allow riding.

    Shared-use paths: Allowed. Local communities may restrict the use of the electric motor. 

    Bike lanes: Allowed.

    Roads: Allowed.

  • Two e-scooters parked on a sidewalk, each with a helmet attached to the handlebars.

    E-Scooters

    Under Wisconsin law:

    Sidewalks: Allowed.

    Shared-use paths: Allowed.

    Bike lanes: Allowed.

    Roads: Allowed.

    Note: Local communities may have additional restrictions. Check your local ordinances before riding.

  • Person riding an electric unicycle on a paved path.

    Micromobility Devices

    Micromobility devices are not currently defined under Wisconsin law, so there are no statewide rules about where they can be ridden.

    We recommend checking with your local community to find out whether they are allowed on sidewalks, shared-use paths, bike lanes, or roads.

  • E-moto, with no pedals.

    E-Motos

    E-motos are not currently defined under Wisconsin law, meaning there are no statewide rules governing where they can and cannot be ridden.

    However, many of these devices are considered motorcycles under state law.

    Sidewalks: Prohibited.

    Shared-use paths: Prohibited.

    Bike lanes: Prohibited.

    Roads: Allowed only if the e-moto is registered with the DMV and the rider has a Class M motorcycle license.

What if my device can go over 30 mph?

Devices capable of traveling more than 30 mph may be classified as motorcycles under Wisconsin law and require registration, a license, and insurance.

However, many of these devices are not considered motor vehicles under federal law, which means they cannot be registered for use on public roads.

Safety Tips

Wear the Right Helmet

We strongly recommend wearing a helmet whenever you ride, especially on higher-speed devices. Choose a helmet that matches the speed and intended use of your device.

  • CPSC (bicycle standard): For bicycles and lower-speed devices traveling up to 20 mph.
  • NTA 8776 (e-bike standard): For higher-speed e-bikes and e-scooters traveling up to 28 mph.
  • DOT (motorcycle standard): For devices capable of speeds greater than 28 mph. These helmets provide greater impact protection and more coverage of the face and head.
Infographic showing three helmet types by speed: CPSC bicycle helmets for speeds up to 20 mph, NTA-8776 helmets for e-bikes and e-scooters up to 28 mph, and DOT motorcycle helmets for devices that travel faster than 28 mph.
Image credit: American Automobile Association (AAA)

Know Your Brakes

E-devices are often heavier and faster than traditional bicycles and scooters, which means they need more distance to stop. Practice braking before riding in traffic or around other people. Use both brakes smoothly, shift your weight back, and leave plenty of space to stop safely.

One Device. One Rider.

E-devices are designed for one rider unless the manufacturer specifically states otherwise. Carrying a passenger can make it harder to steer, brake, and balance, increasing the risk of a crash.

Coming Soon: Safety Videos

We're working with a vendor to create a series of e-device safety videos. They'll be added to this page in the coming months, so check back soon!

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