Big moves in the e-bike world this January. Super73 faces a lawsuit over speed limits, while NYC rolls out a trade-in program for safer batteries. Washington state offers free e-bikes, and Europe tightens e-scooter and import regulations. Porsche enters the e-mountain bike game, Lidl drops a budget eMTB, and Bird expands off-road rentals. With a $28.3 billion market surge on the horizon, e-bikes are charging ahead.
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Legal News & Gossip
Super73 Faces Lawsuit Over E-Bike Legality in California
Super73 is in hot water over claims its e-bikes violate California’s vehicle laws. A class-action lawsuit alleges the company misclassified its high-speed models, which can exceed legal speed limits without proper safeguards. Plaintiffs argue that some Super73 bikes function more like mopeds, requiring registration and insurance. The lawsuit raises concerns about safety, compliance, and potential consequences for riders unaware of the legal gray area. The case could have major implications for the e-bike industry in California and beyond.
Read more at Bicycle Retailer
E-Bike Private Rentals: A Growing Trend with Legal Risks
Renting out personal e-bikes is gaining traction, but it’s not without pitfalls. Platforms now allow owners to lease their e-bikes for extra cash, much like Airbnb for bikes. However, insurance gaps, liability issues, and local regulations make it a legal minefield. Most personal e-bike warranties don’t cover rental use, and accidents could leave owners financially exposed. Riders and lenders alike should tread carefully before jumping into this fast-growing but risky market.
Read more at Ebike24
Industry Updates & Product Releases
3-in-1 Combat E-Bike Transforms from Street-Legal Ride to Snowmobile
Avvenire’s new Combat e-bike is a versatile 3-in-1 machine, functioning as a street-legal e-bike, an off-road dirt bike, and a snow-ready vehicle. Equipped with a 5-kW motor, it reaches speeds up to 37 mph. A 4.8-kWh lithium-ion battery provides a 43-mile range per charge. The bike’s design allows for quick configuration changes, including a front ski attachment for snow travel. Pre-orders are open, with deliveries expected by the end of February.
Read more at New Atlas
Shark Bikes Unveils 2025 E-Bike Lineup with Bold Innovations
Shark Bikes is making waves with its 2025 e-bike range, featuring sleek designs, advanced motor tech, and cutting-edge battery efficiency. The new models promise longer range, lighter frames, and smart connectivity, catering to both urban commuters and adventure riders. With a focus on aerodynamics and durability, Shark Bikes aims to shake up the e-bike market in the coming year. Expect high performance with a futuristic edge.
Read more at Cycling Electric
Lidl Expands E-Bike Lineup with Budget-Friendly Mid-Motor eMTB
Lidl is stepping up its e-bike game with a new mid-motor electric mountain bike at a wallet-friendly price. Known for affordable yet functional e-bikes, the supermarket giant’s latest model features a central motor for better balance and improved off-road performance. While specs remain modest compared to premium brands, it’s an enticing option for riders seeking an entry-level eMTB without breaking the bank. Expect demand to be high as Lidl’s e-bikes tend to sell out fast.
Read more at EbikeTips
Bird App Now Offers Forest E-Bike Rentals for Off-Road Adventures
Bird is expanding beyond urban micromobility, now offering forest e-bike rentals through its app. The new service lets riders explore off-road trails with e-bikes designed for rugged terrain. This move taps into the growing demand for eco-friendly outdoor recreation, making e-biking more accessible in nature reserves and forested areas. With seamless app integration, Bird aims to bridge the gap between city commuting and adventure riding.
Read more at EbikeTips
E-Bike Market Set to Grow by $28.3 Billion from 2025 to 2029
The global e-bike market is projected to expand by $28.3 billion between 2025 and 2029, driven by rising environmental concerns and demand for sustainable transportation. Analysts predict a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 10.4% during this period. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to lead the growth, accounting for nearly 79% of the market expansion. As governments push for greener mobility solutions, e-bikes continue to gain traction worldwide.
Read more at Yahoo Finance
Porsche Accelerates into E-Mountain Bike Market with New Startup
Porsche is venturing deeper into the e-bike industry by establishing a new startup focused on developing electric mountain bikes. This initiative aims to create advanced e-bike drive units, emphasizing high-performance components tailored for off-road cycling. The move aligns with Porsche’s strategy to expand its presence in the sustainable mobility sector.
Read more at BikeMag
Local Updates - US
NYC Rolls Out E-Bike and Lithium-Ion Battery Trade-In Program
New York City’s long-awaited e-bike and lithium-ion battery trade-in program is live. Backed by a $25 million investment, the initiative helps delivery workers replace unsafe batteries with UL-certified ones. The city partnered with retailers to offer subsidies, making safer power sources more accessible. Fire hazards from uncertified batteries have plagued NYC, with over 240 fires linked to lithium-ion batteries in 2023 alone. The trade-in program aims to cut those risks while keeping e-bike couriers rolling safely.
Read more at Bicycle Retailer
NYC Opens Applications for E-Bike Trade-In Program
New York City’s e-bike trade-in program is officially accepting applications. Delivery workers can swap unsafe lithium-ion batteries for UL-certified models at a subsidized cost. Backed by a $25 million investment, the initiative targets fire risks caused by uncertified batteries, which sparked over 240 fires in NYC last year. The program partners with major retailers to ensure a smoother transition to safer e-bike power sources.
Read more at NYC.gov
E-Bike Sales Surge in Clark County Ahead of State Rebate Launch
E-bike sales are booming in Clark County, Washington, as the state prepares to roll out a new rebate program in April. Managed by the Department of Transportation, the initiative offers rebates ranging from $300 to $1,200 to make electric bicycles more affordable. With the popularity of e-bikes on the rise, local retailers anticipate even greater demand once the rebates become available.
Read more at The Columbian
Washington State to Offer Free E-Bikes to Low-Income Residents
Starting in April, Washington state will launch a rebate program providing free e-bikes to qualifying low-income residents. The initiative offers rebates of up to $1,200, covering the cost of an entry-level e-bike. Eligibility criteria focus on income levels, aiming to make sustainable transportation accessible to more people. This move reflects the state’s commitment to promoting eco-friendly commuting options.
Read more at The Bellingham Herald
Local Updates - Across the Pond
Netherlands Uses LiDAR-Equipped E-Bikes to Boost Road Safety
Dutch researchers are using LiDAR-equipped e-bikes to collect real-time data on road safety. These high-tech bikes scan streets, detecting hazards like poor infrastructure, traffic risks, and near misses. The goal is to create a smarter, data-driven approach to cycling safety in one of the world’s most bike-friendly nations. With insights from these rolling sensors, city planners can design safer streets and improve cycling conditions nationwide.
Read more at SCMP
Derbyshire Police Crack Down on E-Scooters with Immediate Seizures
Derbyshire police have adopted a strict “seize at first offense” policy for illegal e-scooter use. Riders caught on public roads without proper authorization will have their scooters confiscated immediately—no warnings, no second chances. Authorities cite rising safety concerns and a surge in unregulated e-scooter use as reasons for the crackdown. With UK laws still restricting private e-scooters on public roads, this move signals a tougher stance on enforcement.
Read more at EbikeTips
EU Extends Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese E-Bikes—Will the UK Follow?
The EU is keeping its anti-dumping tariffs on Chinese e-bikes, aiming to protect European manufacturers from unfair competition. These duties, first introduced in 2018, will remain in place as concerns persist over artificially low prices flooding the market. With Brexit in the mix, all eyes are on the UK to see if it will follow suit or take a different approach. The decision could shape the future of e-bike affordability and availability across Europe.
Read more at Cycling Electric
Local Updates - Across the Other Pond
China Pushes Citizens to Swap Lithium E-Bikes for Lead-Acid Models
China is urging e-bike riders to trade in lithium-powered models for lead-acid alternatives, citing safety concerns. Government-backed incentives aim to phase out older lithium battery tech, which has been linked to fire hazards. The move raises eyebrows, as lead-acid batteries are heavier, less efficient, and environmentally problematic. Critics question whether this is about safety or economic strategy, as China remains a major producer of lead-acid batteries.
Read more at Electrek
More Reading
US E-Bike Regulations Exposed as Flawed by a Single Brown Wire
A simple brown wire is all it takes to highlight the absurdity of US e-bike laws. Some e-bikes ship with speed limits to comply with regulations, but a hidden wire can be clipped or reconnected to unleash higher speeds. This loophole exposes the inconsistency in federal and state laws, where minor tweaks can turn a “legal” e-bike into an unregulated vehicle. With enforcement lagging behind technology, the debate over e-bike classifications and safety standards is heating up.
Read more at CleanTechnica
This All-Electric Bike Has a Genius Space-Saving Trick
A new e-bike is turning heads with its unexpected folding feature, making it the Swiss Army knife of two-wheelers. Designed for urban riders, this sleek model collapses in a way that saves space without sacrificing performance. Its compact design makes it easy to store in tight apartments, offices, or public transport. With the rising demand for flexible mobility solutions, this innovation could redefine urban commuting.
Read more at MSN
This Custom E-Bike Is Built for the Apocalypse
A rugged new custom e-bike is designed to survive anything—from urban blackouts to off-road chaos. Built with massive fat tires, a reinforced frame, and an extended battery range, this beast is ready for extreme conditions. It features solar charging, all-terrain capabilities, and even optional survival gear add-ons. Whether it’s for adventure seekers or doomsday preppers, this e-bike is made to keep rolling when everything else stops.
Read more at MSN
