Electric Bikes are defined as vehicle that has pedals and handlebars. It must not have more than three wheels touching the ground when in usage and that it can be propelled using muscle power applied to pedals. The maximum allowable mechanical power output from motor is defined as 500W and maximum speed is 32km/h just as most other provinces. The electric bike must also stop providing motor power when driver stop applying force to pedal. The power from motor must also disengage when brakes are applied.
Here is the list of most important ebike regulations in Manitoba
When riding a power-assisted bicycle, a helmet must be worn.
Helmet required: power-assisted bicycles- No person shall ride on or operate a power-assisted bicycle on a highway or bicycle facility unless he or she is wearing a properly fitted and fastened protective helmet.
The operator of a power-assisted bicycle must be 14 years of age or older.
Minimum operator age: power-assisted bicycles- No person shall operate a power-assisted bicycle on a highway or bicycle facility unless he or she is 14 years of age or older.
Always use hand signals when turning and stopping to communicate actions to motorists and ensure intentions are visible and predictable.
The driver of a left-hand drive motor vehicle or the operator of a bicycle, power-assisted bicycle, moped or mobility vehicle giving a hand signal shall do so from the left side of the vehicle.
Cyclists and motorists should share the road with respect, courtesy and caution.
Cyclists should ride as close to the curb as practicable.
a. as closely as practicable to the right-hand edge or curb of the roadway, unless the highway is designated for traffic in one direction and has three or more traffic lanes; or b. as closely as practicable to the right- or left-hand edge or curb of the roadway, if the highway is designated for traffic in one direction and has three or more traffic lanes.
It is dangerous and illegal to ride alongside other cyclists. Cyclists should always ride single file leaving a safe distance between riders.
Operation in single file – No person shall operate a bicycle or power-assisted bicycle on a highway beside a moped, mobility vehicle, bicycle or power-assisted bicycle that is operating in the same traffic lane.
A white light at the front of a bicycle and a red or amber reflector at the rear of a bicycle are required. Bicycles with a red light at the rear, rather than the required reflector, are much more visible to motorists and other road users.
(1) Lamps and reflectors on bicycles- Subject to subsection (3), a bicycle or power-assisted bicycle shall be equipped with
a. A headlamp at the front that casts a white light: and
b. A lamp or reflector at the back that casts a red or amber light or reflection and has a surface area of not less than 25cm2.
Here is the link to Highway Traffic Act where you can find more details on power-assist bikes:
https://web2.gov.mb.ca/laws/statutes/ccsm/h060e.php
