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Electric Bicycles (E-Bikes) in Keene

Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, are bicycles with an electric motor that helps the rider pedal or, for Class 2 e-bikes, can provide power through a throttle. In New Hampshire, e-bikes are treated much like regular bicycles. Riders have the same basic rights and responsibilities as people riding traditional bicycles, including following the rules of the road. This printable e-bike flyer can be used as a quick reference guide for frequently asked questions.


There are three classes of e-bikes in New Hampshire. Knowing your e-bike’s class can help you understand where you can ride and what rules apply.

Know Your E-Bike

All e-bikes sold in New Hampshire must have a permanent label in a prominent location. The label must show the e-bike’s class, top assisted speed, and motor wattage.

Class 1 E-Bike

  • Has an electric motor of less than 750 watts.
  • Provides electric assistance only while you are pedaling.
  • Stops providing motor assistance when the bike reaches 20 mph.
  • Does not have a throttle.

Class 2 E-Bike

  • Has an electric motor of less than 750 watts.
  • Can provide power while you are pedaling.
  • Can also move the bicycle without pedaling by using a throttle.
  • Stops providing motor assistance when the bike reaches 20 mph.

Class 3 E-Bike

  • Has an electric motor of less than 750 watts.
  • Provides electric assistance only while you are pedaling.
  • Stops providing motor assistance when the bike reaches 28 mph.
  • Does not have a throttle.
  • Must have a speedometer that displays speed in miles per hour.
  • May not be operated by anyone under 16 years old.

Where Can I Ride an E-Bike?

Where you can ride depends on the class of your e-bike and the type of path or trail.

Class 1 and Class 2

Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes may be ridden on bicycle paths and multi-use paths where bicycles are permitted.


A city, town, or state agency that has jurisdiction over a bicycle or multi-use path may prohibit Class 1 andClass 2 e-bikes on that path. Always follow posted signs and local rules.

Class 3

Class 3 e-bikes have additional restrictions. A Class 3 e-bike may not be ridden on a bicycle or multi-use path unless:

  • The path is within or next to a highway or roadway; or
  • The city, town, or state agency that has jurisdiction over the path allows Class 3 e-bikes.

Natural-surface trails designated as non-motorized have additional rules. The city, town, or state agency with jurisdiction over the trail may set rules for e-bike use.


Always check posted signs and local trail rules before riding an e-bike on a path or trail.

E-Bikes Must Follow the Rules of the Road

New Hampshire law treats an e-bike as a vehicle in the same way as a bicycle. Unless a specific e-bike rule applies, e-bike riders have the same rights and duties as people riding regular bicycles. When riding on a roadway:

  • Stop at stop signs.
  • Stop at red traffic signals.
  • Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
  • Ride with the flow of traffic.
  • Ride on the right side of the road as far as practical when traveling slower than other traffic.
  • Do not ride against traffic on a one-way street.
  • Do not ride on sidewalks in downtown Keene.
  • Follow traffic signs and signals.
  • Use care when passing other bicycles, vehicles, pedestrians, or animals.
  • Move toward the center of the road or into a left-turn lane when preparing to make a left turn, when it is safe to do so.

Riders may move away from the right side of the road when needed to pass, prepare for a left turn, avoid hazards, or avoid other people or objects in the roadway.

Bicycle and E-Bike Safety

E-bikes can travel faster and accelerate more quickly than traditional bicycles. Riders should know how their e-bike operates and practice controlling it before riding in traffic. For safer riding:

  • Wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet.
  • Follow all traffic laws.
  • Ride at a speed that is safe for the conditions.
  • Watch for pedestrians, vehicles, other bicyclists, and obstacles.
  • Use extra care when riding near parked cars.
  • Make sure drivers and other road users can see you.
  • Use lights and reflective equipment when riding at night.
  • Keep your e-bike in good working order.

New Hampshire law requires bicyclists to wear at least one item of reflective apparel from one-half hour after sunset until one-half hour before sunrise. Helmets are required by law for bicyclists under 16 years old.

E-Bike Questions?

The rules for e-bikes can depend on the class of the bicycle and the type of road, path, or trail where you want to ride. Before riding, check:

  1. What class is my e-bike?
  2. What is the speed limit or posted rule for the road, path, or trail?
  3. Does the city, town, or agency that manages the path allow my type of e-bike?
  4. Am I following the same rules of the road that apply to other bicyclists?

Learn More

For the full requirements, review the New Hampshire laws that govern electric bicycles and bicycle operation:

Quick Reminder

Know your class. Follow the rules. Ride at a safe speed. Be aware of other people using the road or trail.