Hawaii Targets E-Bikes & E-Motos, Bosch’s Performance Update 2.0, Tern Partners with BikeInsure | TWR Ep 81

Hawaii is advancing legislation aimed at clarifying the legal status and safety regulations of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric motorcycles (e-motos). The proposed bill, HB 2021, seeks to formally adopt the three-class e-bike system widely recognised in the US, categorising bikes by their motor power and assist speed. It also introduces a clear distinction between e-bikes and higher-powered electric devices, banning the latter from public spaces such as roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks. Notably, the bill would require all e-bikes to be registered with the state, imposing a $30 fee, while also mandating helmet use for riders under 18 and setting minimum age limits for unsupervised operation. The legislation goes further by imposing behavioural standards on e-bike riders to promote safety, prohibiting stunts and reckless riding on public thoroughfares. Manufacturers and retailers would be obliged to label e-bikes with their class, motor wattage, and top assisted speed, with penalties for non-compliance. The bill also targets schools by banning high-speed electric devices on K–12 campuses and allowing schools to require registration decals for e-bikes brought on site. Currently in conference committee, the bill reflects a growing trend among US states to regulate electric mobility devices more rigorously in response to safety concerns and incidents involving high-powered e-motos. In the realm of e-bike technology, Bosch has launched its Performance Update 2.0 for select mid-drive motors, enhancing torque output to 120 Nm and increasing support levels up to 600% in various riding modes. Unlike competitors who simply boost power, Bosch’s update is designed to deliver peak assistance selectively during challenging terrain or steep climbs, optimising power use rather than continuous output. The update is available over-the-air via the Bosch Flow app and also introduces compatibility with Garmin Edge cycling computers, allowing riders to integrate Bosch motor data directly into their Garmin devices. Bosch hinted at further innovations to maintain competitiveness in the evolving e-bike market. Meanwhile, Tern has announced a partnership with BikeInsure to provide customers with access to tailored e-bike insurance plans. The service promises low premiums and a simplified claims process, offering protection against theft and damage. This move reflects the increasing demand for insurance solutions tailored specifically to the growing e-bike market, where users seek peace of mind amid rising concerns about security and repair costs. The partnership aims to make insurance more accessible and straightforward for both new and existing Tern e-bike owners. Together, these developments underscore a dynamic period in electric mobility, marked by evolving legislation, technological advancements, and growing support services. Hawaii’s regulatory efforts highlight the challenges of integrating e-bikes safely into public spaces, while Bosch and Tern’s initiatives demonstrate how manufacturers and service providers are responding to rider needs and market growth. The outcomes of these trends will likely influence future policies and innovations across the e-bike sector in the UK and beyond.