Motorcycles, Mopeds & Motor-Assisted Cycles (NES)

Classification of e-bikes depends on motor power, speed capability, and whether pedaling is required for propulsion. Purely pedal-assist e-bikes that cannot propel themselves without pedaling may be classified as bicycles, while those with throttle-only operation or higher power outputs may fall under motorized cycle headings. The distinction is fact-specific and should be confirmed with a customs broker and, if necessary, a CBP binding ruling.

Mopeds with auxiliary motors that are designed primarily as pedal cycles — where the motor is supplementary rather than the primary means of propulsion — typically fall outside the displacement-based motorcycle headings. Additionally, vehicles with non-reciprocating-piston engines (e.g., rotary or electric motors) are not captured by the piston-engine displacement headings and may land here.