In reply to balmybaldwin:
> I am wondering why these latest power assisted (I've only seen them used as power only I.e. no pedaling) bikes aren't treated the same in law as a moped? They do around 30mph, the only difference I can see is they are powered by batteries rather than fuel, yet if I buy an electric car I need a license etc. I guess they weigh less, but they weigh a lot more than a normal pedal bike
By law they're severely power and speed limited (250w, 15.5mph). Trikes are allowed a little bit more power. Many aren't compliant and should indeed be licensed as a motorcycle (or the law could be relaxed slightly).
> The reason I ask is I see them being riden like a scooter on the road, but also on paths. And in some cases by riders too young to get a moped.
You need to be 14+ to ride an electric bike legally.
> Some of the newer MTB models would rival a motocross bike off road, they are seriously impressive which then begs the question are they suitable for bridle paths?
A very few home builds based on big downhill bikes might but a big motocross bike is a beast. I've not seen anything commercially available that comes close. Road legal electric bikes have less performance than pedal powered bikes.
jk