By Ed Benjamin ed@ecycleelectric.com
The basic answer is that you should build to satisfy the federal requirements for bicycles and electric bicycles as described by the CPSC. If your result is a class one or class two bike, then you have a few issues across the states.
But if you are building a class three bike, then you need to meet the requirements for such, and be aware that not all states will allow the sale of class three bikes.
There are some additional details, such as heavy metal content, shipping of hazardous materials, and insurance.
Product liability insurance and a plan/training that addresses injury incidents should be part of your planning for the USA. Part of that plan is to be sure that you document compliance with CPSC requirements, and that the mechanical structure and electrical safety of the bike have been tested appropriately.
When you read the above article, it helps to know that a “low speed electrically assisted bicycle” (a class one or two electric bikes) is, in the eyes of federal law a “bicycle.”
16 CFR Part 1303 – Ban of lead-containing paint is an example of the heavy metal issues.
Documentation at the time of import: Importers or manufacturers must issue the GCC with a list of applicable standards (e.g.16 CFR Part 1512) and support documents such as certificates and test reports.
Testing… In the USA, UL testing is not a legal requirement. But some big stores and Amazon require UL testing as a liability control measure. CE testing is not understood or required in most cases.
UL 2849 – Standard for electrical systems for E-bikes,
Mechanical strength standards are catalogued by ASTM, and most factories that export to the USA are well aware of them:
People for Bikes is a good resource for you that will help you keep up with changes: https://www.peopleforbikes.org/electric-bikes/policies-and-laws
Three class system and the states that have adopted these laws: https://www.peopleforbikes.org/topics/electric-bikes
Author: Ed Benjamin ed@ecycleelectric.com
Author: Ed Benjamin ed@ecycleelectric.com