Regulations & Requirements

DEFINITION:

·         I.C. 9-13-2-109.  "Motorized bicycle" defined Sec. 109.  "Motorized bicycle" means a two (2) or three (3) wheeled vehicle that is propelled by an internal combustion engine or a battery powered motor, and if powered by an internal combustion engine, has the following: (1)  An engine rating of not more than two (2) horsepower and a cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty (50) cubic centimeters. (2)  An automatic transmission. (3)  A maximum design speed of not more than twenty-five (25) miles per hour on a flat surface. The term does not include an electric personal assistive mobility device.

HIGHWAYS:

·         I.C. 9-21-11-11.  Bicycles must observe rules of the road. Sec. 11.  A person who operates a bicycle upon a highway shall observe the regulations and requirements of this article.

CONDITIONS of OPERATION:

·          I.C. 9-21-11-12.  Restrictions on speed, location, and operator of motorized bicycles Sec. 12.  A motorized bicycle may not be operated under any of the following conditions: (1) by a person less than fifteen (15) years of age. (2)  By a person who has not obtained an identification card under IC 9-24, a permit under IC 9-24, an operator's license under IC 9-24, a chauffeur's license under IC 9-24, or a public passenger chauffeur's license under IC 9-24. (3)  On an interstate highway or a sidewalk. (4)  At a speed greater than twenty-five (25) miles per hour.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT:

·         I.C. 9-21-11-13.  Protective headgear required for motorized bicycles Sec. 13.  A person less than eighteen (18) years of age who operates or rides a motorized bicycle on a street or highway shall do the following: (1) wear protective headgear meeting the minimum standards set by the bureau or a helmet that meets the standards established by the United States Department of Transportation under 49 C.F.R. 571.218 in effect January 1, 1979. (2)  Wear protective glasses, goggles, or a transparent face shield. 

PARENTS & GUARDIANS:

·         I.C. 9-21-11-1.  Parents responsible for children; bicycles subject to chapter Sec. 1.  (a)  The parent of a child and the guardian of a protected person may not authorize or knowingly permit the child or protected person to violate this chapter. (b) Subject to the exceptions stated, the provisions of this chapter applicable to bicycles apply whenever a bicycle is operated upon a highway or a path set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles.