By VDC staff

Colchester school officials and the Colchester Police Department are urging families to learn the legal differences between electric bicycles and higher-powered motorized bikes as more youth use electric-powered vehicles to travel to and from school and for recreation.

District officials said they have seen a significant increase in students riding electric-powered cycles this spring and summer, prompting a joint safety initiative with local police aimed at preventing injuries and ensuring students comply with Vermont law.

“It has been wonderful to see our students outside, staying active, and enjoying their independence,” the district said in a letter to families. “We love seeing our kids engaged in activities they enjoy, and we fully support modern, eco-friendly ways for them to get around.”

The district said many parents may not realize that some vehicles marketed as electric bikes are legally classified as motor vehicles or motorcycles under Vermont law.

Officials noted that traditional e-bikes with fully functioning pedals and motors rated at 749 watts or less are generally legal for riders under age 16 if they are Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes. Those bicycles may be operated on sidewalks, bike paths and public roads where permitted.

However, electric mini-bikes, mini-motos and pocket bikes equipped with foot pegs instead of pedals, motors of 750 watts or more, or engines larger than 50cc are not legal for riders under 16. Vehicles with motors exceeding 1,000 watts are classified as motorcycles and require registration, insurance and a licensed operator with a motorcycle endorsement. They also are prohibited from sidewalks and bike paths.

School officials said the district is updating its student handbooks to make clear that illegal motorized bikes, including electric mini-bikes, mini-motos and pocket bikes, will not be allowed on school campuses.

“Our primary goal is to ensure that our students remain safe, while also respecting our community members who share our sidewalks, bike paths, and roads,” the district said. “We want to ensure parents have the accurate information needed to protect their children from the severe safety risks associated with adult-speed vehicles and to avoid unintentional legal and financial liabilities.”

The district said questions about the legality of specific vehicles or traffic laws should be directed to School Resource Officer Jaime Bressler of the Colchester Police Department, which is partnering with the schools on the public education campaign.