E-bikes, what you need to know.

April 30, 2026 - West Kelowna, British Columbia
From: West Kelowna RCMP

Content

E-bikes … Did you know?

With the popularity of E-bikes and E-dirt bikes on the rise, particularly amongst local youth, West Kelowna RCMP would like to remind riders and the general public of the rules and regulations of owning and/or operating one, with emphasis on the importance of safe and lawful operation. 

This message, shared on behalf of Cpl. Tyrone Wilton of the West Kelowna Detachment Traffic Unit, highlights the growing concern and calls for service in the community: young riders operating high-powered electric bikes and dirt bikes on public roads, sidewalks and trails – often without the knowledge that they’re breaking the law.

“As we come into the Spring and Summer months with longer days and warmer weather, we are expecting to see a rise in use of E-bikes and collectively, the number of complaints to police,” says Cpl. Wilton.

In response, West Kelowna RCMP Traffic Section, Crime Reduction Units and General Duty members are joint in a focused effort to engage with unauthorized and high-risk users of these E-bikes to target dangerous operating behaviours.

What Makes an E-Bike Legal in B.C.?

To be considered a legal e-bike under the Motor Vehicle Act, a vehicle must meet all the following criteria:

• Maximum motor power of 500 watts Top speed of 32 km/h with motor assistance for people over the age of 16 years old.
• Maximum motor power of 250 watts, top speed of 25 km/h with motor assistance, for people over the age of 14 to 16 years old.
• Working pedals that allow for manual pedaling
•  A helmet must be worn at all times
• No license or insurance required

If the e-bike exceeds these limits — particularly speed or motor wattage — it’s no longer considered a bicycle. It’s classified as a motor vehicle and must comply with all the same rules and regulations as a car or motorcycle.

The Rise of Electric Dirt Bikes: A Serious Concern

Electric dirt bikes are often marketed as bikes, but many operate like motorcycles — with top speeds of 70–90 km/h. These vehicles are frequently purchased online or second-hand, sometimes without clear legal information.

“Parents may not realize what they’re buying,” said Wilton. “A sleek, modern-looking electric dirt bike may appear safe or street legal, but if it doesn’t meet the e-bike criteria, it’s illegal on public roads and sidewalks.”

Legal Risks and Consequences

If a youth is found operating an illegal e-dirt bike in public areas, the consequences can be severe, these may include:

• Fines for no license or insurance
• Vehicle seizure
• Criminal charges for fleeing police or dangerous driving
• Civil liability in the event of a collision or injury

Common charges include unlicensed or uninsured operation, riding on sidewalks, not wearing a helmet, obstructing police, and dangerous driving — all of which carry real legal and financial consequences for both youth and their parents.

What the RCMP Is Doing

In response, West Kelowna RCMP is taking proactive steps:

• Issuing public reminders and media releases
• Handing out information letters to youth caught with illegal e-dirt bikes
• Targeted enforcement in identified hot spots such as Shannon Lake, Glenrosa and Hudson Rd

What Parents Should Know

To keep kids safe and law abiding, the RCMP advises parents to:

• Check motor power and speed before buying
• Talk to your children about the risks and legal issues
• Do not allow use of illegal e-dirt bikes on public roads, sidewalks, or trails
• Buy from reputable local shops that understand B.C.’s laws

“If your child is involved in an accident while riding an illegal vehicle, you could be held legally and financially responsible,” warns Wilton.

Stay Informed

Let’s work together to keep West Kelowna safe and ensure our youth ride responsibly. Please share this message with other families in your community.

For more information about road safety visit https://rcmp.ca/en/bc/safety-tips/road-safety, contact your local RCMP detachment or a trusted e-bike retailer.

Contacts