On October 20, 2025, the Board of Supervisors in Upper Providence Township approved a new ordinance regulating e-bikes and other recreational motorized vehicles. The ordinance defines an e-bike in Pennsylvania as a pedalcycle with pedals, weighing less than 100 pounds, with a motor under 750 watts, and a top speed of 20 miles per hour under motor power. Operators must be at least 16 years old. E-bikes that meet these requirements can be used in the same way and in the same places as traditional bicycles.
E-bikes without pedals, those that exceed 20 miles per hour, weigh more than 100 pounds, or have a motor stronger than 750 watts are classified as recreational motorized vehicles. This group also includes dirt bikes, one-wheels, motorized scooters, minibikes, ATVs, go-carts, and snowmobiles. These vehicles must be titled and registered to operate on public roads. Violators may receive traffic citations.
In township parks, people aged 16 and older may use recreational motorized vehicles if they follow specific rules. These vehicles are limited to asphalt or concrete surfaces, must not exceed 80 decibels, and have a speed limit of 15 miles per hour. Operators under 21 must wear helmets. All users must yield to pedestrians and non-motorized devices and provide an audible signal when passing…