Onewheel – Motorized Vehicle or Not?

One of the first places people ride their onewheel is on a street or sidewalk however motorized vehicles are not allowed on sidewalks. Also to be on a street motorized vehicles must be registered. So where does the Onewheel and other electric skateboards stand?

A Onewheel is not a motorized vehicle in the traditional sense. A title is typically required when registering a motor vehicle. While Onewheels along with other e-skateboards are motorized (meeting the literal definition), they are commonly classified under PEV laws (if any exist within the state).

So are Onewheels Illegal?

Generally speaking, Onewheels are street legal. They still are relatively novel items and most state / city laws do not delineate their allowable use. Electric skateboards (e-skateboards) and Onewheels alike tend to follow scooter laws. Some laws do specify hoverboards only which is why its important to know that Onewheels are not hoverboards.

The table below provides a list of each state and their respective laws for PEV’s / PLEV (personal electric vehicles / personal light electric vehicles):

Additional State Information

Michigan:
While Michigan electric skateboard laws state that e-skateboards are legal, if riding on public ways, the rider must be at least 12 years old. As stated above, the board cannot exceed the speed limit of 25 mph. Helmets are also required by all riders 18 and younger. Onewheel is not specified in their electric skateboard code however it would fit the criteria of an electric skateboard.

Michigan’s full e-skateboard code is under section 257.660. This pertains to skateboards and other devices that have an electrical propulsion system. This is the Michigan vehicle code that goes into more detail for personal assistive mobility devices. Review the code but its also important to check with the local ordinance codes as well.

Where is the Safest Place to Ride Onewheels or E-Skateboards?

Onewheels have a major advantage in that they are well equipped to handle off-road terrain. You can ride them on trails, beach coastlines, fields, etc. Generally, the safest place from experience has always been trails and fields. Because you are off the road and out of sight for the most part, you have little chance to cause concern for bystanders. Riding out on a field or trail can be an incredible experience. Make sure to check with local authorities and review any posted signage. Usually these areas are relatively ok to ride on.

Once you ride a trail, you’ll likely become addicted to it. We cover the best off-terrain e-skateboards and welcome you to review the list. If you don’t get on a Onewheel, try another board out. There is a lot of fresh air to taste while you ride.

Conclusion

Federal laws do not yet fully address PEV / micro-mobility devices (e-skateboards, onewheels, etc). Also, many states do not specify electric skateboards yet alone Onewheels. The states that have officially legalized certain PEV’s typically (if not always) require a helmet to be worn if on public roadways. As the popularity of Onewheels grow, undoubtedly more legislation will be implemented. Considering the chart above and how many states either do not specify or do not currently regulate Onewheels, it’s fair to assume this is likely to change. Some areas just require you to wear safety gear. If comes down to that, just wear it. Check out our list on the recommended safety wear.

Many riders often do not have issues with the law. Problems that tend to rise when riding in congested areas (such as NYC, Vegas strip, boardwalks, congested sidewalks in general). Onewheels are still relatively novel and its legal use has yet to be defined. As such, the above information is subject to change, it is important to always check local laws prior to assuming public roadway use. You can always play it safe and hit some trails!

F.A.Q.’s