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E-Bikes

Laws

South Carolina law states that any e-bike that is being operated on a publicly owned path, sidewalk, or road must have a permanent label indicating the bike's horsepower and maximum assisted speed.

Isle of Palms Municipal Code prohibits e-bikes on the beach during the peak summer season (between Memorial Day and Labor Day).

Do I need a license?

Bicycles are defined in SC § 56-5-160 as: 

  • Propelled solely by pedals
  • No driver's license required

E-Bikes are defined in SC § 56-1-10(29) as:

  • Must have full operable pedals 
  • An electric motor of 750 watts or less, or one horsepower
  • Must have a top motor-powered speed of less than 20 MPH
  • The electric motor must stop or disengage when brakes are applied
  • Must have a permanent manufacturer label that indicates the bike's wattage and maximum electrically assisted speed
  • No driver's license required
E-Motos are defined as:
  • Electric motorcycles
  • No operable/functional pedals
  • Exceeds 750 watts
  • High speed
  • Requires registration, insurance, and a driver's license

Hand Signals

Bicycle hand signals

 

Safety Tips

  • Bikes have to follow the same rules of the road as a car
  • Bicycles and e-bikes must have a red rear reflector, and a headlight at night
  • Ride with the flow of traffic
  • E-Bikes are heavier, handle differently, and need longer stopping distances. Practice before operating on public roads.
  • Wear a helmet
  • Yield to pedestrians
  • Walk your bike when using a pedestrian crossing
  • Watch out for cars
  • Use hand signs when turning or stopping