Article Summary

For all of you who would rather not read all the way down, this is what you need to know:

• The DMV requires a license, annual registration fees and proof of insurance for most all "motor vehicles" HOWEVER, a "motorized bicycle" is exempt from these requirements
• A motorcycle will cost you money every year, even if you never ride it BUT an electric bicycle is a one-time cost and only pennies to re-charge
• You can save several hundred dollars every year by riding an electric bicycle

Our customers have shown us several ways our electric bicycles can be used, specifically for RVers/Campers, Students and Commute to Work. You might want to skip ahead to those sections below if the whole article looks too intense!

 

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In the United States, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regulates the use of vehicles both on and off the road. Driving/riding is considered a "privilage" that can be taken away if the rules are not followed. In general, this is a good thing and citizens are probably safer because of their regulations. This "privilage" to explore the open road comes at a price.

To operate a motor vehicle, the DMV requires a drivers licence. There are tests involved and fees collected. You must register your motor vehicle every year which costs you more money. The DMV also requires you to be able to show proof of insurance. They do kindly allow you to pass on the expensive, full coverage but even the basic, minimum coverage can add up.

Did you know about the loophole?

The DMV bases all of their requirements on definitions of a "motor vehicle". They are the "Department of Motor Vehicles" and that is what the regulate. The term you need to look into is "Motorized Bicycle". According to the California DMV (and similarly in the rest of the states):

406.

(a) A "motorized bicycle" or "moped" is any two-wheeled or three-wheeled device having fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power, or having no pedals if powered solely by electrical energy, and an automatic transmission and a motor which produces less than 2 gross brake horsepower and is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour on level ground.

(b) A "motorized bicycle" is also a device that has fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power and has an electric motor that meets all of the following requirements:

(1) Has a power output of not more than 1,000 watts.

(2) Is incapable of propelling the device at a speed of more than 20 miles per hour on ground level.

(3) Is incapable of further increasing the speed of the device when human power is used to propel the motorized bicycle faster than 20 miles per hour.

(4) Every manufacturer of motorized bicycles, as defined in this subdivision, shall provide a disclosure to buyers that advises buyers that their existing insurance policies may not provide coverage for these bicycles and that they should contact their insurance company or insurance agent to determine if coverage is provided.

(c) The disclosure required under paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) shall meet both of the following requirements:

(1) The disclosure shall be printed in not less than 14-point boldface type on a single sheet of paper that contains no information other than the disclosure.

(2) The disclosure shall include the following language in capital letters:

"YOUR INSURANCE POLICIES MAY NOT PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR ACCIDENTS INVOLVING THE USE OF THIS BICYCLE. TO DETERMINE IF COVERAGE IS PROVIDED YOU SHOULD CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY OR AGENT."

Amended Sec. 1, Ch. 804, Stats. 1995. Effective January 1, 1996. Supersedes Sec. 2, Ch. 342.

What does this mean to you?

The licensing requirements and insurance and registration costs don't apply to an electric bicycle! As compared to a small gas powered motorcycle, you could save an average of $500 every year just by choosing to ride an electric bicycle. Cheap Electric Scooters Online takes advantage of this overlooked detail and focuses entirely on an inventory of "Motorized Bicycles", including electric bicycle, scooters and related kits to truely offer our customers high quality vehicles that continue to save them money year after year. In addition to offering the right products, we have structured our supply chain to take advantage of efficiencies in delivery which allow us to offer our products at the best possible prices.

Our customers have shown us a number of ideal uses for our electric bicycle and electric scooters.

Recreational Vehicles (RVs)

When you're parking your RV in the off season, you are paying for storage, DMV registration and insurance. The last thing you want to do is add to that cost by hanging a motorcycle on the back of that RV that you only use on vacations. An electric bicycle will allow you to park your RV at the campsite, get around during the day and save you the ongoing expense of a motorcycle. That could add up to a savings of $500 you happily spend every year on more firewood and smores! You may also consider the folding electric scooters we carry which can also be a great choice for easy storage.

Students

College is only getting more expensive. Not just tuition, but books and supplies (even the essencials like beer) add up to a costly 4 to 6 years. I can't suggest that the $500 an electric bicycle will save you every year will put a huge dent in your Ivy League tuition payments but every little bit helps. It could cover quite a few 6-packs!

The other, often overlooked benefit of the right electric bicycle is the social potential. The band Cake explains it well in their song "Stickshifts and Safetybelts" when they suggest that bucket seats get in the way when you're driving in the car. The right electric bicycle gives you the two person saddle seat to really "connect" on your nights out. There's nothing that breaks the ice quicker than asking her to "hop on and hold on". A highly recommended alternative for those who can't dance.

Ride to Work

You know an electric bicycle can get you to work and you know it will save you money. Did you know it can be a quick, fun way to start your day? Each electric bicycle comes with pedals but installing them is optional. You can zip to work and back without ever breaking a sweat!

Some customers choose to let the electric motor whisk them off to work in the morning to enjoy the ride while sliding through the traffic. At the end of the day they pedal their way home to easily work a little exercise into their daily routine. Sure it's good for the environment but think about what a bike ride every day can do for your thighs!

 

Electric Bicycle

When we refer to an "electric bicycle" we are not only talking about the standard mountain bike or beach cruiser, but also vehicles that many would consider scooters.  Each XB series electric bicycle meets the DMV requirements and are in fact considered an "electric bicycle".  Don't let the headlight, turn signals and storage trunk fool you!

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May 30, 2010 by Brian Gallo