E-wheel Safety & Rules

Know the rules before you ride – not every electric two-wheeled vehicle is legally an e-bike. Some are classified as motorcycles and require a driver’s license, registration and insurance before they can be ridden on public streets.

Parents should be especially aware that many high-powered electric vehicles are marketed to younger riders, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are legal for children to ride on public streets, sidewalks or trails. Many devices sold online look almost identical to bicycles but are legally classified as motorcycles. Before purchasing one, take time to understand how the device is classified and where it can legally be used. 

The table below provides a quick overview of the most common electric-powered devices and the Lenexa laws that apply to each. Understanding the rules helps keep everyone safe and ensures these devices are used where they are permitted. 

E-wheels Driver's License Flowchart(PDF, 78KB)

When in doubt, remember this simple rule: Just because it’s electric doesn’t make it an “e-bike.” 

To report careless or reckless use of electric devices in Lenexa, call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 913.477.7301 as soon as you observe the violation or immediately afterward.

If you have questions about your specific device or need additional guidance, contact the Lenexa Police Department at LenexaPDPIO@lenexa.com or 913.825.8040.

See City Code Section 3-8-A-1 and 3-8-A-7 to read the full ordinance.

Electric device regulations in Lenexa

Device	License required	Where you can ride	Max speed	When you can ride	Motor size limit
Motorized skateboards	No	Sidewalks Trails Not allowed in parks or public streets; dismount and carry.	15 mph	Daylight hours only.	N/A
E-scooters	No	Sidewalks Trails Streets with with a posted speed limit of 25 mph or less Not allowed in parks; dismount and walk device.	15 mph	Daylight hours only unless equipped with lights.**	N/A
E-bikes	No	Sidewalks Trails Streets Parks	20 mph	Daylight hours only unless equipped with lights.**	Up to 750W
Motorcycle-style vehicles (includes e-motos, motorcycles and motor-driven cycles)	Yes. Requires a motorcycle permit/license and vehicle must also be registered and insured.*	Streets only Not allowed on sidewalks, trails or in parks.	Follow posted speed limits	Anytime, but must be equipped with all required lights and signals.	N/A
Mopeds	Yes. Requires the appropriate license: standard or moped. Vehicle must also be registered and insured.*	Streets only Not allowed on sidewalks, trails, in parks or on highways.	Follow posted speed limits	Anytime, but must be equipped with all required lights and signals.	Up to 3.5 HP, 130cc, automatic transmission and incapable of exceeding 30 mph
Golf carts	Yes	Streets with a posted speed limit of 25 mph or less Not allowed on sidewalks, trails, in parks or locations normally used for pedestrian traffic.	25 mph	Anytime, but must be equipped with all required lights	N/A

* Helmet and eye protection are required for riders under age 18. Helmets are strongly recommended for all devices.

** White lamp on front and either a red reflector or red lamp on the rear, or a red or amber device worn by the rider and visible from the rear.

Before you roll: What you need to know