New Legislation Surprises Cyclists in Illinois Regarding Who Is Considered a Cyclist | Carscoops

      The change ensures that more cyclists are safeguarded in case of an accident.

      9 hours ago

      by Stephen Rivers

      Illinois law now categorizes low-speed e-bikes and tricycles as bicycles.

      Riders now have clearer protections for accident incidents and insurance claims.

      There is now uniformity across the state as suburban areas discuss e-bike regulations.

      For many years, defining a bicycle has been relatively straightforward, but that is evolving. The emergence of e-bikes has prompted governments worldwide to assess classifications.

      Some e-bikes enable biking for those who previously found it unfeasible. Conversely, others resemble rugged dirt bikes but are marketed as commuting solutions. Illinois is now providing clarification for its citizens.

      More: No Pedals No Mercy As California City Cracks Down On E-Bikes

      Senate Bill 2285 became effective in the state on August 1, aiming to clarify the definition of a ‘bicycle’ under the Illinois Vehicle Code. Previously, a bicycle was characterized as “every device propelled by human power upon which any person may ride, having two tandem wheels except scooters and similar devices.”

      While that may seem adequate, it could lead to confusion where some might argue that mopeds or high-powered e-dirt bikes fall under the category. It also does not account for those riding bicycles with more than two wheels.

      A Clearer Definition

      Both the state and cycling advocacy groups sought to further clarify the law. The updated law defines a bicycle as “every human-powered or low-speed electric vehicle with two or more wheels not less than 12 inches in diameter, designed for the transportation of one or more persons.”

      In essence, any human-powered device, including e-bikes, qualifies as a bicycle as long as it has a maximum speed of under 30 mph and does not exceed 750 watts of power. Additionally, it expands the definition to cover three or four-wheeled bicycles.

      Why It Matters

      Fundamentally, the law offers greater protection for cyclists and allows the state to use the term bicycle more broadly when discussing infrastructure. Planning for bike paths or lanes no longer necessitates specifying that they are only for traditional bicycles and e-bikes. As reported by The State-Journal Register, this also simplifies insurance processes since the law now clearly distinguishes the term bicycle.

      Regarding road usage, conditions will remain as they have, but now also include riders of bicycles with more than two wheels, who must adhere to the same road rules as other users. Another bill, SB2111, is currently in the legislative process and would permit cyclists to treat stop signs as yield signs.