State law targets growing e-motorcycle use in cities like Issaquah

A new state law that took effect last month has narrowed the definition of an e-bike, offering clarity to cities like Issaquah who have reported a recent surge of high-speed bikes on their roads, sidewalks and parks.

Senate Bill 6110 attempts to create a distinction between e-bikes and electric motorcycles, or e-motos. While often similar in appearance and marketing, e-motos are more closely aligned with gas-powered motorcycles than bicycles. They are capable of reaching highway speeds and, unlike e-bikes, are illegal on roads and urban spaces.