Be Safe + Be Ready

Published on November 13, 2026

A Buying Guide for eRides

Anywhere you go these days, you’ll see eRides taking over! They are a sustainable and efficient form of transportation growing in popularity among young people. However, the wrong eRide can pose a great risk to you and others. With the holiday season fast approaching, here is a quick guide on how to be safe and be ready when shopping for an eRide.

eBike

 

What is an eBike?

Bicycles that operate with electric assistance are called eBikes. They are equipped with an electric motor, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and a pedal assist or throttle. Heavier in weight and higher in speed, eBikes require a higher level of balance and control than traditional bicycles.

What is an eScooter?

Scooters that operate with an electric motor and rechargeable lithium batteries are called eScooters. With small wheels, quick acceleration, and speeds up to 20 mph, you must be over 14 years of age to use an eScooter without adult supervision.

What is a Onewheel?

Self-balancing skateboards with a single tire that operate with electric assistance are called Onewheels. They have a motor power of 750 watts and a top speed of 25mph. You must be over 14 years old to use a Onewheel without adult supervision.

What is an eMoto?

Dirt bikes or motorcycles that operate with electric assistance are called eMotos. More powerful than eBikes, eMotos do not require operable pedals, have a 1,000-6,000 watt motor, and can reach speeds of 30-65 mph. Unlike eBikes, eMotos are considered motor vehicles that require registration and insurance to be used on public roads. You must be over 14 years old to use an eMoto without adult supervision. 

eBike, eScooter, Onewheel, eMoto

Types of eBikes

All eBikes have a label that states their class, top speed, and wattage. The electric power for any eBike is 750 watts. 

• Class 1: Pedal assisted, reach a top speed of 20 mph

• Class 2: Throttle-capable, reach a top speed of 20 mph

• Class 3: Pedal assisted, reach a top speed of 28 mph. You must be over 14 years of age to use a Class 3 eBike without adult supervision.

Class 1 eBike, Class 2 eBike, Class 3 eBike

Things to consider

When shopping for an eRide be sure to consider the following:

  • Regulations: Understanding local regulations will determine if it’s worth buying an eBike. The State of Virginia has set standards for both eBikes and Bicycle Safety. 
  • Specifications: Knowing the eBike’s class, size, weight, and acceleration will determine if it’s appropriate for your child to ride. You can use an online sizing guide to see what bike is the best fit.
  • Modifications: Some eBikes are sold with modifications that don’t meet consumer standards. Making sure the eBike’s wattage and top speed match the label and is certified by a recognized testing organization will help ensure your child’s safety. 
eBike with Helmets

 

What to shop for

  • eRides: With the rising popularity of eRides, there are a growing number of online stores with unreliable information. Please stay on the lookout for websites that don’t list the eRide’s classification, frame sizes, or specifications. Also look out for companies that don’t list customer service numbers or safety standards, such as a UL Certification. 
  • Helmets: Virginia law requires Class 3 eBike users to wear a helmet while riding. Class 1 and 2 eBike users may be required to wear a helmet depending on their locality. We recommend the following helmets based on the eBike’s classifications:
  • CPSC-certified bicycle helmets – Class 1 & 2
  • NTA 8776 helmets – Class 1, 2 & 3
  • DOT-certified motorcycle helmets – Class 3
  • Other accessories: In addition, consider purchasing protective gear such as visors, audible alarms (e.g, bells and horns), lights, or reflectors that can alert pedestrians and help ensure a safe ride.
CPSC Helmet, NTA Helmet, DOT Helmet

Learn more

To meet the growing need and support safe riding in communities across the country, Winchester Parks & Recreation is partnering with PeopleForBikes and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation to offer an online and in-person eBike Training Course. The course covers the basics of eBike ownership, rules of the road, and includes practice drills designed to help riders build confidence and improve their skills.

This holiday season, be safe and be ready. If you are gifting your child an eRide, sign up for the eBike Training Course on January 27. 

Additional Resources

eBike Buying Guide PDF(PDF, 935KB)


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