August 7, 2026 - (New York City, NY) Illegal high-speed e-bikes and e-scooters have no place on our city’s streets. On Aug. 6 we sent a Cease & Desist letter to over 40 online retailers selling illegal e-bikes and stand-up scooters to New Yorkers. More than half of all e-bike and stand-up scooter rider deaths involved an illegal device.
Under existing law, it is illegal to sell or operate on public streets:
– Motorized stand-up scooters weighing more than 100 pounds or capable of traveling faster than 20 miles per hour.
– E-bikes equipped with electric motors larger than 750 watts or capable of speeds exceeding 25 mph.
– Seated mopeds that do not have and display a valid Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Retailers that continue selling prohibit devices after receiving a cease-and-desist order may face civil penalties of up to $2,000 for each illegal sale. Illegal devices found operating on New York City streets may also be impounded.
No one should fear for their lives on the streets of New York City.
Read more here.
