MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD) – The Mount Pleasant Police Department released a new guide as it works to help parents tell whether their child is riding a true e-bike or an electric moped, which must follow different laws under South Carolina regulations.
Police say many parents are surprised to learn that the device their child calls an e-bike may legally be considered a moped that requires registration and a licensed rider.
According to the guide, an electric-assist bicycle must meet three requirements under state law: a motor of 750 watts or less, a top motor-powered speed under 20 mph, and working pedals that cause the motor to shut off when braking or when the rider stops pedaling…