Most states require riders to be at least 14 or 16 years old to ride Class 1, 2, or 3 electric bikes.
Are There Electric Bikes For Kids?
Written by: Rémy Rossi | August 26, 2025 | Time to read 4 min
Kids may love the idea of extra speed on two wheels— but are electric bikes really the right ride for them?
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
Electric bikes are everywhere these days, but parents often wonder—are they safe for kids? While most e-Bikes are built for adults, there are some youth-friendly options out there. Before buying, it’s important to understand age limits, safety concerns, and which models are actually designed for younger riders.
E-Bikes aren’t really for kids
In general, when we talk about electric bikes, we’re talking about a product designed for adult riders. The higher speeds, weight, and motorized assistance of e-Bikes require proper control, and that means ages 16 and up in most cases. Also, e-Bikes are built to fit adult riders who are taller and larger than children— many e-Bike frames are simply too big for kids to ride safely or comfortably.
Electric bikes can travel fast— up to 28 mph for Class 3 models— and while that may sound super fun for young kids, that extra pace comes with a lot of responsibility. Reining in kids’ access to fast electric bikes isn’t about cramping their style, but rather helping them and others stay safe. That said, there are still some options for older kids or skilled youngsters who want to ride electric bikes— but safety always comes first.
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Many states have age limits for e-Bikes
As fun as electric bikes are, they’re not toys and are a serious responsibility. For that reason, many states and local areas impose age limits on e-Bike use. Certain states require riders to be at least 14 or 16 to use Class 1 or Class 2 electric bikes that travel at a maximum speed of 20 mph, and there are even stricter rules for faster Class 3 e-Bikes that can assist up to 28 mph.
Be sure to check your area’s e-Bike laws and regulations before buying an electric bike for your little one. However, I recommend that you consider getting them a regular bike as they develop their riding skills, and when they are older, they can upgrade to an electric bike if they want.
There are some electric bikes for kids
Despite the warnings and all the adult-sized e-Bikes, there are some models designed for young riders. Motorized bicycles aren’t the craziest thing in the world for kids after all, especially considering similar things like electric or gas-powered mini dirt bikes (I had one of these as a kid). But again— safety first. Prioritize features like kid-sized frames, parental speed controls, and always wear a helmet or additional protection.
The Rocky Mountain Reaper Powerplay, for example, is a full-sized electric trail bike in a junior-sized package with smaller 24” or 26” wheels. There’s also the Woom Up kids’ electric bike from the popular Woom brand. There are even electric striders or balance bikes built for the youngest riders from the likes of SUPER73 and Himiway. These models often have lower top speeds than traditional e-Bikes to match kids’ growing riding skills.
The Rocky Mountain Reaper Powerplay, for example, is a full-sized electric trail bike in a junior-sized package with smaller 24” or 26” wheels. There’s also the Woom Up kids’ electric bike from the popular Woom brand. There are even electric striders or balance bikes built for the youngest riders from the likes of SUPER73 and Himiway. These models often have lower top speeds than traditional e-Bikes to match kids’ growing riding skills.
There’s a debate about kids’ electric bikes
As you may have already noticed, the issue of kids riding electric bikes is a hot one. There are opposing views, and the problem of safety is at the center of the debate. Kid-specific electric bikes may have appropriate features and limitations that suit young riders and their developing bodies and brains, while still allowing them to have fun.
Many kids ride motorized dirt bikes, for example, but they typically wear full-face helmets, protection pads, and ride in closed circuits away from cars. Giving kids free rein on powerful electric bikes is probably not a great idea if they are going to endanger themselves or not make responsible choices. But if the boost is worth it, there are ways to encourage a safe and run ride for our next generation of riders.
Many kids ride motorized dirt bikes, for example, but they typically wear full-face helmets, protection pads, and ride in closed circuits away from cars. Giving kids free rein on powerful electric bikes is probably not a great idea if they are going to endanger themselves or not make responsible choices. But if the boost is worth it, there are ways to encourage a safe and run ride for our next generation of riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age to ride an electric bike?
Key Takeaways
- Most e-Bikes are designed for adults: Kids need age-appropriate models and supervision.
- Laws vary, but many states require riders to be at least 14–16 for Class 1, 2, or 3 e-Bikes.
- Kid-specific e-Bikes exist with smaller frames, lower speeds, and safety features.
