More than 50 crashes involving electric bicycles and electric scooters occurred in Washoe County, Nevada, in 2025, prompting increased scrutiny of regulations governing the rapidly growing modes of transportation. While the exact number of incidents is likely higher due to underreporting, according to the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, the surge in accidents has focused attention on rider safety and legal clarity.
Nevada law currently treats e-bikes and e-scooters similarly to bicycles, permitting their operation on streets, highways, bike lanes, and shared-leverage trails. Riders are expected to adhere to standard traffic laws, including obeying traffic signals, stop signs, and speed limits. Washoe County codes further require riders to operate at “reasonable and prudent speeds” considering conditions and safety. However, the state does not require a license or, with limited exceptions, a helmet for e-bike riders.
The state classifies e-bikes into three categories based on motor assistance and top speed. Class 1 e-bikes offer pedal-assist only, cutting off at 20 mph. Class 2 e-bikes have a throttle and also cease assistance at 20 mph. Class 3 e-bikes provide pedal-assist up to 28 mph, but do not include a throttle. All classes require fully operable pedals and motors no greater than 750 watts. E-bikes exceeding these parameters are legally considered mopeds, requiring adherence to moped regulations.
A key change in Nevada law came with updates in 2019 and 2021, which established these Class 1-3 definitions. Prior to 2019, e-bikes with motors under 750W and a top speed of 20 mph were simply categorized as bicycles, lacking the specific classifications now in place. This shift aligns Nevada with many other states that have adopted similar e-bike categorization systems.
Despite the statewide regulations, local jurisdictions have begun to implement their own rules. Clark County, Las Vegas, Henderson, and Boulder City currently require minors to wear helmets while operating e-bikes on facilities under their jurisdiction. Local authorities are also considering establishing explicit speed limits for e-bikes in certain areas, citing safety concerns. State law prohibits e-bikes – and bicycles – from operating on interstate highways.
The Reno Gazette Journal reported that drivers are legally obligated to maintain a safe distance when passing e-bikes and to exercise caution when sharing the road. Riders are permitted to ride two abreast when safe, but are encouraged to ride single file in traffic for safety and courtesy.
Law enforcement officials have noted that any electric bike exceeding 20 mph under motor assist is considered a moped, subjecting riders to the rules governing motorized vehicles. This distinction carries potential penalties for operating an unlicensed vehicle.
