From 1 July, watch out bikes!
From 1 July, watch out bikes!
"I was stunned to learn that e-bike riders will now have to wear motorbike helmets and that the bike will have to be registered.Is this correct?"
Cyril, Geneva
In view of the growing number of e-bike users in recent years, the Federal Council has adopted new provisions amending its ordinances on road traffic and technical requirements for road vehicles.
There are two types of electric bicycle: those whose battery only works when the rider pedals, and those whose battery works without pedalling assistance.
From now on, e-bikes will fall into the category of "light mopeds" if they have a maximum power rating of 500 watts, or "other mopeds" if their power rating is between 500 and 1000 watts.
Light mopeds" can travel at a maximum speed of 20 km/h without pedal assistance and 25 km/h with pedal assistance. Users of e-bikes in this category are not required to wear a helmet, even though the Federal Council strongly recommends it. What's more, they are not required to register their vehicles. As a result, and since the beginning of 2012, when cyclists are no longer required to have a vignette, any damage caused by the use of these bicycles is covered by the cyclist's own civil liability insurance.
On the other hand, the more powerful 500 to 1000 watt models can travel at a maximum speed of 30 km/h without pedal assistance and 45 km/h with pedal assistance. Since they reach speeds comparable to those of mopeds or the legendary Solex bicycle, the Federal Council felt it necessary to make it compulsory for users to wear a bicycle helmet, and even a motorbike helmet for those who opt for bicycles without pedal assistance. In addition, e-bikes in this category will have to be fitted with a control plate and have a road licence.
As a result, from 1 July 2012, when these changes to the regulations come into force, you will need to wear a bicycle helmet or even a motorbike helmet, depending on the power of your electric bicycle, and if necessary register your vehicle or risk being fined by the motor vehicle department.
