Bicycle & And Pedestrian Planning

Prepare Before Heading Out

• Ride a bike that fits you. If the bike is too big, it will be more difficult to control.
• Make sure your bike works.
• Wear equipment to protect you and make you more visible to others, like a bike helmet, bright clothing (during the day), reflective gear, and a white front light and red rear light and reflectors on your bike (at night, or when visibility is poor).
• Ride one per seat, with both hands on the handlebars, unless signaling a turn.
• Carry all items in a backpack or strapped to the back of the bike.
• Tuck and tie your shoelaces and pant legs so they don’t get caught in your bike chain.
• Plan your route—if driving as a vehicle on the road, choose routes with less traffic and slower speeds. 

Ride on the Right Side

• Always ride with the flow of traffic.
• Do not ride on the sidewalk.
• Allow yourself room to maneuver around hazards.

Yield to traffic in Busier Lanes

• Ensure the lane is clear and free of oncoming vehicles before you move into it.
• Always use signals to indicate your intentions to move position.
• Looking behind you is a way to indicate to other road users your intention to change your position on the roadway. It is will also allow you to determine when you can safely navigate your move in relation to other road users.

Electronic Bicycles (E-Bikes)

Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are an increasingly popular, sustainable, and enjoyable way to get around. Whether commuting to work, running errands, or exploring local trails, e-bikes offer an efficient and eco-friendly transportation option. However, their growing use also brings a responsibility to operate them safely and within the law. 

E-Bike Classifications

To help regulate e-bike use, Massachusetts law defines e-bikes by class. Each class is based on how the motor provides assistance and the maximum speed it allows. Knowing your e-bike's classification is essential to riding it legally and safely in different settings.

CLASS 1: Bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph, with an electric motor of 750 watts or less.

CLASS 2: Bicycle equipped with a throttle-actuated motor that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph, with an electric motor of 750 watts or less.

Safety Requirements & Riding Rules

Helmet Required: All riders under 16 years of age must wear a helmet that complies with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission standards.

Sidewalk Restrictions: E-bikes may not be ridden on sidewalks, especially in downtown or high-pedestrian areas.

Passenger Rules: A passenger is only allowed if the bike is equipped with a seat for them.

Riding Formation: Riders may travel two abreast, but must switch to single file when being passed by a motor vehicle.

Traffic Compliance: Riders must follow all motor vehicle laws and general bicycle laws, including:

• Stopping at red lights and stop signs
• Yielding to pedestrians
• Obeying lane markings and signals

Lighting Requirements: Between ½ hour after sunset and ½ hour before sunrise, a bike must have:

• A white front light
• A flashing red rear light

Fines and Enforcement: Violations may result in fines, and for minors, police may impound the bike for up to 15 days.

Additional safety Resources

The League of American Bicyclists

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

MassBike E-Bike FAQ