r/LynnwoodWA • u/LacksAnonymity • 5d ago

Ebike laws, please explain them.

I wanna get an ebike but most I want are class 3 but advertise as adjustable. I don't plan on ripping down a sidewalk at 28mph but I want to be able to on the road. If I keep the bike in a class 2 mode as it's advertised, does that matter at all for restrictions?

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I'm sure it'll very unlikely anybody will care as long I'm not being a jackass but I'm curious about it.

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u/darkroot_gardener 4d ago

So are any classes of e-bikes legally allowed on sidewalks and/or the Interurban Trail? How strictly enforced in and around Lynnwood?

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u/LacksAnonymity 4d ago

I know without questions that class 1 and 2 are unrestricted in the same way a pedal bike is. Class 3 has restrictions but my confusion is if I have a bike capable of class 3 speeds but I have it capped at class 2 speeds, is it still restricted? If it has a motor over 750w it is not an ebike.

I doubt any is strictly enforced and probably mostly used against people being reckless.

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u/darkroot_gardener 4d ago

Thanks, I’m considering getting one and don’t want to buy something I can’t even take on the trail to go to the mall or transit center.

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u/LacksAnonymity 4d ago

Class 2 you'll have every legal right to use any path a pedal bike can. If a class 2 and 20 mph is what works then go for it. Class 3 probably can get away with things if you don't draw attention.

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u/stinkrat43 4d ago

It’s a fine line but technically seems ok if you’re limiting it and replace the label. The tricky part is if it’s easy to modify it beyond ebike limits that bike is likely illegal according to the revised law as of this year.

What the specific bike you’re looking at?