East Algoma OPP – Gasoline engines on bicycles is Illegal in Ontario

The East Algoma Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind riders that operating a bicycle being powered by a combustion engine on roadways and sidewalks is illegal in Ontario.

People are modifying bicycles by adding a gasoline engine (similar to a chainsaw motor) to the frame. A second chain drive is usually rigged to move the back wheel through the hub assembly. These standard bicycles were not designed or manufactured to support the weight of the motor, additional power through the hub, and increased pressure on the brakes. This in turn causes stress on the frame and other parts of the bicycle – ultimately resulting in failure and breakage.

Additionally, adding a gasoline engine to a standard bicycle now transforms it into a motorcycle. This means the “motorcycle” has to be Certified, properly plated with a permit, class M license is required to operate, the proper helmet worn, signal lights/brake light/headlight required, and valid insurance is required.

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OPP

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) provide policing services throughout Ontario. Our officers are responsible for policing over one million square kilometres of land and waterways. They provide frontline policing services to more than 320 Ontario municipalities and patrol over 126,000 kilometres of provincial roadways.

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