Rochester, NY Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)

Chapter 34, added by Ordinance 2021-72, defines 'ELECTRIC BICYCLE' in § 34-1 as a bicycle no more than 36 inches wide with an electric motor under 750 watts, equipped with operable pedals, that qualifies as a Class One or Class Two 'bicycle with electric assist' under the New York Vehicle and Traffic Law. That definition folds Rochester into the state's three-class e-bike framework rather than creating a separate local classification. Section 34-2(C) then sets the operating rules: no one under 16 may operate an electric bicycle, and electric bicycles may only be used on City streets with a posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour or less, keeping them off higher-speed arterials.

Riders 16 and older must use a usable bike lane or cycle track where one exists, or otherwise ride near the right-hand curb, edge of roadway, or a usable right-hand shoulder, in a manner that doesn't unduly interfere with traffic flow. Within the Center City District, sidewalk riding is barred except where the sidewalk is part of the Genesee Riverway Trail or another multi-use trail, or when riding with a child 12 or under; outside that district, riders 16-plus may use sidewalks, the Riverway Trail or multi-use trails, but must ride single file. Chapter 34 also incorporates by reference the additional state rules in Article 34 of Title 7 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law.