Buying an e-bike or an e-scooter? Read this first.

E-bikes vs. e-scooters – what’s the difference?

Most major Canadian municipalities recognize two categories of e-bikes: pedelecs and e-scooters. While the age to operate both types of vehicles is typically the same in all provinces, a pedelec and e-scooter are very different when it come to their features, their speed, and their ability to travel on different types of roads. Here’s a full list of key differences:

Pedelecs (E-bikes)

• Have operational pedals and handlebars
• You must wear a helmet while operating one
• In most provinces, you must be 16 years of age or older to drive one
• Can sometimes be used on trails and bike lanes, depending on local regulations
• They can’t exceed speeds of 32 km/h or a weight limit of 120 kg

If you ride an e-bike, the provincial Highway Traffic Act will apply to you so be sure to follow all standard vehicle regulations. Depending on the province, drivers with a suspended license may not be allowed to legally operate an e-bike.

E-scooters

• Don’t have a seat, pedals, basket, or enclosure and are designed to ride while standing
• In most provinces, you must be 16 years of age or older to operate one
• They can only be operated in certain municipalities and are not allowed on highways
• They must have a maximum wheel diameter of no more than 17 inches
• They can’t exceed speeds higher than 24 km/h

When it comes to road regulations, e-scooter riders must typically follow similar rules and guidelines as road cyclists.

Check with your local municipality

Before deciding which e-bike type is right for you, be sure to check your local municipality website to familiarize yourself with the specific rules that will apply to you. It’s also worth noting that most parking bylaws don’t currently address any type of e-bike – so you should be able to park both a pedelec or an e-scooter wherever you can park a car or wherever you can lock up a bike!

Mopeds

Many people refer to gas-powered mopeds as “scooters” which can create confusion when discussing the different types of e-bikes. However, these types of vehicles typically require the operator to have a basic motorcycle license and license plate.

E-bikes, e-scooters and insurance

Since both e-bikes and e-scooters are small, lightweight vehicles, you are typically not required to have insurance to operate them. However, larger, gas-powered options, like a moped or Vespa do require valid motor vehicle insurance. For more information about insuring a gas-powered moped or Vespa, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Desjardins Agent.