06/13/2026
📢 COMMUNITY NOTICE: E-Bike Regulations & Safety in Harrisville Borough 📢
The Harrisville Borough Police Department has recently received yet another influx of complaints regarding the operation of electric bicycles (E-bikes) throughout town. These concerns involve near-misses with pedestrians, high speeds on sidewalks, disregard for traffic signage and minors operating these vehicles.
We love seeing our community outside and enjoying alternative modes of transportation, but safety must come first. To keep our streets and sidewalks safe for everyone, please review the current laws regarding E-bikes in Pennsylvania:
🚴♂️ The Rules of the Road
•They are not permitted on Borough sidewalks where pedestrian traffic is present.
•Under Pennsylvania law, no one under the age of 16 may operate an E-bike.
•Legal E-bikes must have an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 horsepower) and a maximum speed of 20 mph on a level surface when powered solely by the motor.
•Helmets are REQUIRED for riders under 12 on standard bikes, but we strongly recommend helmets for all E-bike riders due to the higher speeds involved. Lights and reflectors are required if riding after dark.
🛑 What is NOT Allowed
Modified E-bikes that exceed 20 mph, or electric dirt bikes/sur-rons that do not meet the legal definition of an E-bike, are considered unregistered motor vehicles. These cannot legally be operated on Borough streets, sidewalks, or in public parks.
All operators of motor-driven cycles and e-bikes are strictly subject to the duties and regulations applicable to drivers under the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code (Title 75).
A message to Parents from us:
Many of the complaints we receive involve young teens riding E-bikes carelessly, recklessly, dangerously, or carrying multiple passengers. If you purchased an E-bike for your child, please ensure they are at least 16 years old, understand the rules of the road and are operating the bike safely.
Our officers will be actively monitoring these high-traffic areas and issuing warnings or citations where necessary to ensure public safety.