Originally Posted by
Rob_E
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle_laws
You can see that many states classify certain e-bikes as bicycles. You can consider it BS if you like, but that doesn't change the law. I agree that it's confusing. And it's a shame when someone breaking the law interferes with other people's enjoyment. But it's good to know which laws are actually being broken. Around here, MUP speed limits are routinely ignored, but mainly by human-powered bikes. But I'm sure on the GAP it's primarily e-bikes going too fast.
Using WA as an example, the site you list is correct in terms of indicating E-bikes as electric assist bicycles if they do not exceed the requirements listed. However, something it does not mention (specific to WA for now, I didn't research all states), is if the path is designated as "motorized vehicles prohibited", E-bikes/assist are not allowed on those paths.
http://www.wsp.wa.gov/traveler/docs/...ct_bicycle.pdf
Many portions of regional trails in WA are designated as "motorized vehicle prohibited", however, I have routinely seen e-bike on these trails.