VENICE Fla. (WWSB) – Venice police are cracking down on e-bike and e-moto violations, saying some riders may not realize what they are riding does not legally qualify as an e-bike.
What makes an e-bike legal
Under Florida law, a legal e-bike has working pedals and a motor under 750 watts.
“We are seeing an increase of both. A lot of these elderly folks are getting out of their house using e-bikes, and a lot of the younger community are exploring these e-motors,” said Steven Short, Venice traffic officer.
Riding rules differ by vehicle type
In Venice, bikes are not allowed on sidewalks along several downtown streets, including Venice, Tampa and Miami avenues.
Something may look like an e-bike, but if it does not meet the legal definition, it could be considered a motorcycle…