Motorized Bicycle Laws in Pennsylvania
by Caroline Folkenroth
With increasing gas prices, many people are looking for more economical means of transportation. To drive a motorized bicycle, moped, motor scooter, dirt bike, or motorcycle on Pennsylvania highways and roadways, you must meet the state's criteria, otherwise the use of these vehicles is limited only to private property.
Definition
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation or PennDot: mopeds or motor-driven cycles are defined by having pedals, a motor with a rating of no more than 1.5 brake horsepower and an engine cylinder capacity no larger than 50 cubic centimeters. The vehicle has an automatic transmission and is designed to have a maximum speed of not more than 25-miles-per hour. A motor-driven cycle is also defined as an electric cycle with pedals and is powered by an electric battery,
Registration
If the motor-driven cycle meets these requirements, Pennsylvania requires an annual registration fee of $9. The vehicle does not need inspection and is issued a moped plate which must be displayed while on public roadways and highways.
Safety Requirements
In Pennsylvania, as long as the moped or motor-driven cycle does not exceed 50 cubic centimeters and is rated at 1.5 brake horsepower or smaller, no helmet or eye protection is required for the driver.
License
In Pennsylvania, a class M driver's license is required for a motor-driven cycle.
References
Writer Bio
Caroline Folkenroth has been involved in producing technical trade manuals in the fine art casting industry since 2007 at A.R.T. Enterprises INC. where she was employed as a production manager. She attended PA College of Art and Design. She is an active artist with artwork in several private collections and maintains a studio in Lancaster, Pa.
