E-bike vs. electric motorcycle: New WA law draws hard line
By Dan Thesman on Wednesday, June 10th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
WASHINGTON – Law enforcement agencies are warning families about a spike in electric motorcycles on local roads just ahead of a major shift in Washington state law.
Beginning tomorrow (Thursday), Enhanced Substitute Senate Bill 6110 (see https://shorturl.at/L7DUq) takes effect to strictly differentiate between electric-assisted bicycles and electric motorcycles. Under the new law, a legal e-bike must feature fully operable pedals, maintain a motor rated at 750 watts or less, and fit into one of the state’s three official e-bike classes (see https://shorturl.at/1378c).
Authorities say vehicles failing to meet these specific guidelines will be regulated as motorcycles, mopeds, or motor vehicles. For many riders, that means operation on public roads will now require a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, and compliance with helmet laws.
Law enforcement agencies emphasize that the current push focuses on education and prevention to avoid crashes, injuries, and citations. However, officials also issued a stern reminder to parents: under Washington law, guardians can be held legally responsible if they knowingly allow an unlicensed juvenile to operate a motor vehicle.
Police departments and sheriff’s departments across the state note that their goal is education, prevention and safety, adding that many families remain unaware of how the state classifies these rapidly proliferating vehicles.
Local law enforcement is urging residents to familiarize themselves with the updated rules to keep streets safe for riders, drivers, and pedestrians alike.
Photo courtesy Grant County Sheriff’s Office
