RCMP Remind the Public of Rules for E Bikes and E Dirt Bikes

April 16, 2026 - Lake Country, British Columbia
From: Lake Country RCMP

Content

Recent growth in the sale of e‑dirt bikes has led to more these electric vehicles operating on local streets, raising public safety concerns. It is important for riders and parents to understand that e‑dirt bikes are not the same as street‑legal e‑bikes and are subject to different rules under the BC Motor Vehicle Act.

While e‑dirt bikes are newer than gas‑powered dirt bikes, the rules governing their use remain the same.

• E‑bikes are speed‑limited, have restricted motor output, are equipped with functional pedals, and are classified as bicycles. They must follow bicycle rules of the road.
• E‑dirt bikes do not have pedals and rely solely on an electric motor, meaning they do not qualify as e‑bikes and cannot be operated on public streets.

Some electric motorcycles are street‑legal, however  these vehicles are registered, insured, and equipped with required safety features. E‑dirt bikes, like gas‑powered dirt bikes, cannot be insured for on‑road use. 

Anyone found operating an e‑dirt bike on a public road may face charges and fines under the BC Motor Vehicle Act including:

• No insurance – $598
• No driver’s licence – $276 and three demerit points
• No helmet – $138 and two demerit points
• Driving without due care – $368 and six demerit points
• Driving without consideration – $196 and six demerit points
• Seven‑day vehicle impoundment
• Stunting‑related offences

Tickets may be issued to the rider or the registered owner. If a youth without a licence is ticketed, it may impact their ability to obtain a BC driver’s licence in the future.

Lake Country RCMP will continue education and targeted traffic enforcement to reduce risk and improve road safety.

Associated links

• Road safety | Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
• E-bike requirements - Province of British Columbia

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