We have had a lot of inquiries about new electric bikes, scooters, and mopeds. Here is a breakdown of the state laws for each as of August 1st, 2005:

Motorized Scooters
(electric or piston driven)

LEGAL for street use as long as the scooter has two wheels under 10 inches in diameter or an electric or gas motor with a maximum speed of no more than 15 MPH on a flat surface. The new law makes operators of the scooters subject to the same rights and duties as bicyclists.

The following conditions must also be met to operate scooters legally on the roadways:

• Operator must be at least 12 years of age
• Operators between 12 and 18 years of age must wear a helmet
• Passengers are prohibited Operators are prohibited from driving on sidewalks
• Operators will be allowed to ride scooters on bicycle paths, lanes or trails, UNLESS local authorities prohibit motorized vehicles. (All Dodge County Trails prohibit the use of motorized vehicles on the trails)
• Scooters must be operated as close as possible to the right curb of the road unless the operator is passing or making a left turn.
• When turning to the left, the operator must dismount at the right curb and cross on foot.

Motorized Bicycle

• Motor of a piston displacement of 50 CC or less
• Maximum of 2 brake horsepower
• Maximum speed of not more than 30 MPH on flat surface
• Fully operable pedals not required

Electric-Assisted Bicycle

• Has a seat and fully operable pedals
• Has electric motor with power output of no more than 1000 watts
• Maximum speed of not more than 20 mph
• Disengages when vehicle's brakes applied
• Two or three wheels

To operate a Motorized/Electric Assisted Bicycle on the streets or highways a person age 18 or older must...

• Have a valid driver's license or a motorized bicycle permit
• Motorized Bicycles require vehicle insurance coverage like motorcycles Electric Assisted Bicycles require no insurance)
• Helmet use required for a Motorized Bicycle operator if under the age of 18
• Helmet use required for any operator of an electric assisted bicycle regardless of age
• No Passengers unless designed to accommodate passengers with seat and footrests
• Eye Protection required for operator of Motorized bicycle (Not Electric- Assisted)
• Working Horn, Brake, Directional Signals, Headlight

Operators under age 16 operating under a motorized bicycle permit must follow these additional restrictions:

• No Passengers
• No Night Driving
• No Interstate Driving
• Must wear a Helmet (both Motorized and Electric-Assist)

Please forward any comments, questions, or suggestions regarding this web site to Deputy Dave Crable in the Crime Prevention Unit. 507-635-6222 ext 1360 dave.crable@co.dodge.mn.us

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