From today: It is permitted to ride electric bicycles with speeds up to 25 km/h

September 1, 2014   

Now it is legal: According to new regulations approved by the Minister of Transport and Road Safety, starting today, electric bicycles with a maximum power of 250 watts, whose travel speed does not exceed 25 km/h, can be ridden. The engine will stop operating when the bicycle's speed exceeds 25 km/h, in accordance with European standards. Electric bicycles will be equipped with safety accessories that include, among other things, a horn or bell, a front and rear light, and a reflector. The regulations allow riding new bicycles whose electric motor is operated by a bicycle pedal and has a throttle that operates up to six kilometers per hour. The minimum age of the cyclist has been limited to 14 years and older. The bicycle is required to carry an official marking with the words "Bicycle with an auxiliary motor," which will be placed in a central and visible place on the frame of the vehicle. The special marking will indicate the model name, manufacturer and its brand, country of manufacture, and importer's name and address, engine power of 250 watts and a maximum speed of 25 kilometers per hour, and a prohibition on use by those under the age of 14. The amendment to the traffic regulations regulating the use of bicycles with an electric auxiliary motor is based on a new official Israeli standard for bicycles with an auxiliary motor that was formulated by the Standards Institute of Israel. This standard came into effect on July 1, 2014. On the recommendation of the Ministry of Transportation, it was agreed that a bill would be immediately advanced that expands the obligation to wear a protective helmet when riding an electric bicycle. The obligation to wear a helmet will apply to all riders and all ages. Enforcement of the riders will be carried out by the Israel Police and municipal inspectors of the local authorities who will be given special powers in this regard. This follows an agreement between the Ministries of Transportation, Justice, Internal Security, the Israel Police and the Local Government Center. Enforcement of the import, marketing and sale of electric bicycles will be carried out by inspectors from the Ministries of Transportation, the Economy and the Standards Institute of Israel. Electric bicycles are of great importance as an alternative means of transportation to the private car, mainly due to their contribution to reducing road congestion and reducing air pollution.