New 15 mph E-Bike and Scooter Speed Limit Takes Effect in New York City

By Y.M. Lowy

New York City’s new 15 mph speed limit for electric bikes and scooters goes into effect today.

The rule, first announced in June, is meant to improve street safety and brings e-bike speeds in line with limits in some European bike lanes. Citi Bike lowered its e-bike speed from 18 mph to 15 mph in June after First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro warned that e-bikes posed “an emergency threat to life and property.” Regular bicycles are not affected and can still travel up to 25 mph.

Mayor Eric Adams has made e-bike safety a focus of his re-election campaign as the city steps up enforcement against riders who break traffic laws. The growing use of e-bikes has sparked debate, especially among delivery workers who rely on them for work.