As of June 21, 2002, it is legal for people in B.C. who are 16 years of age or older to use small electric motors on their bicycles to assist with pedaling, due to recent Motor Vehicle Act changes enacted by the B.C. government.

These changes mean that as long as a motor assisted cycle (MAC) meets certain criteria, it may be used without having to meet the vehicle and driver requirements that are intended for motorcyclists.

“As long as you are over 16 and wear a bicycle helmet, you can operate a MAC without registration, vehicle licensing, a driver's license, vehicle insurance, and without costly equipment or modifications,” says ICBC's Dennis Ostler, manager of regulated vehicle programs. Motor assisted cycles look like a regular bicycle, but have a small motor attached. The motor is electric powered, rated at 500 watts or less, and is not capable of propelling the cycle at a speed greater than 32 km/hr on level ground.

“The approval of electric motor-assisted bicycles creates another sustainable, low-emission transportation choice for British Columbians,” said Water, Land and Air Protection Minister Joyce Murray. “This will help improve local and regional air quality and encourage alternative transportation, while also helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.” Cycling groups, municipal governments, law enforcement and other groups and individuals have all supported the reduction in regulations that apply to MACs.