373.19 MOTORIZED BICYCLES.

   (a)    “Motorized bicycle” means any vehicle with two tandem wheels or one front and two rear wheels which is capable of being pedaled and is also equipped with a helper motor. The helper motor must:

      (1)    Have a piston displacement of no more than fifty cubic centimeters;

      (2)    Produce no more then one brake horsepower; and

      (3)    Propel the vehicle at a maximum speed no greater than twenty miles per hour on a level surface.

         (ORC 4511.01(H))

   (b)    No person shall operate a motorized bicycle upon a highway or any public/ private property used by the public for purposes of vehicular travel or parking unless the person possesses a valid license or permit pursuant to Section 373.20(a)(1).

   (c)    No person shall operate a motorized bicycle upon a highway or any public/ private property used by the public for purposes of vehicular travel or parking unless the motorized bicycle is equipped with each of the following:

      (1)    A working muffler and exhaust system, with no cutouts or by-passes which allow excessive noise.

      (2)    A firmly attached seat for the operator. Top of the seat must be at least twenty-five inches above the ground.

      (3)    At least one and no more than two headlights.

      (4)    A taillight with a reflective lens.

      (5)    A brake light.

      (6)    Handlebars must be equipped with safety grips, and must be positioned no higher than fifteen inches above the seat.

      (7)    A horn or other audible signaling device that can be heard at least 100 feet away. Sirens and whistles are not permitted.

      (8)    Brakes.

   (d)    The provisions contained in this chapter pertaining to and regulating the use of bicycles shall be interpreted to include and regulate the operation of motorized bicycles for the purposes of this section.

(Ord. 81-27. Passed 3-17-81.)

   (e)   Whoever violates any provision of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor on a first offense; on a second offense within one year after the first offense, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree; on each subsequent offense within one year after the first offense, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.