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Legally they’re classed with tricycles and unicycles as bicycles under the Highway Traffic Act, at least until the three-year pilot project set up to evaluate their use is completed in October 2009…
But riders must be 16 years of age or older and must wear an approved bicycle helmet at all times (not just if you’re under 18).
Distinguishing them from mopeds and gas-powered scooters, e-bike motors are limited to a top speed of 32 kilometres per hour without pedalling also, owners don’t need a licence, insurance or plates.
It’s unclear if a licence, written test, registration or insurance will be required once the government’s pilot program ends. The province isn’t saying anything just yet.
The wrench in the freewheelin’? Scooters. They meet the provincial pilot’s e-bike definition but not its spirit, since they’re much heavier and not primarily propelled by human power.
