Limited speed motorcycles

Some mopeds, scooters and other low-powered motorcycles that meet certain requirements can be registered and insured for use on public roads, technically called "highways," in B.C. These are classified as “limited speed motorcycles,” or LSMs, based on standards in the Motor Vehicle Act Regulations. 

Unlike a person operating a motor assisted cycle (e-bike), a limited speed motorcycle driver must have a licence and the vehicle must be insured. You may only operate a limited speed motorcycle on public roads. You cannot operate a limited speed motorcycle in cycle lanes and other places where motor vehicles are not permitted.

On this page: 

• Device requirements
• What makes a device a limited speed motorcycle?
• Rules of the road for limited speed motorcycles

Device requirements

A device must meet all the following requirements to be a limited speed motorcycle:

• A motor with a piston displacement of not more than 50 cc, or a power source that produces a maximum of 1.5 kW
• A maximum attainable speed, on level ground, with or without pedals, of 70 km/h
• A power drive system that does not require clutching or shifting by the operator after the drive system is engaged
• A maximum weight of 95 kg, excluding fuel and batteries
• Wheels of a diameter of 254 mm or more

A device that meets only some of these requirements is not a limited speed motorcycle and is illegal to operate on public roads. Police can issue a violation ticket and fine to a person operating an unauthorized device.

What makes a device a limited speed motorcycle?

Motorcycles (including limited speed motorcycles) for retail sale in Canada will have a Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) compliance label permanently affixed to the device, meaning it meets the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act Regulations for public road use.

If a device does not have a CMVSS compliance label, it cannot be registered or insured as a limited speed motorcycle. 

A motorized device that is not a limited speed motorcycle, or that does meet all of the requirements of a motor assisted cycle (e-bike), an electric kick scooter, an electric wheelchair or mobility scooter is illegal to operating on public roads in B.C.

Rules of the road for limited speed motorcycles

Like a motor vehicle, a limited speed motorcycle must be registered and insured to be operated on a public road. You must also possess a valid driver's licence (any class except 5 or 7 learner’s licence) to operate a limited speed motorcycle.

A person operating a limited speed motorcycle has the same rights and duties as a driver of a motor vehicle. For example, they must obey all traffic lights and control devices and posted speed limits. Since they are motor vehicles under the law, limited speed motorcycles are not permitted on multi-use paths, in cycle lanes or any other areas where motor vehicles are not permitted.

Limited speed motorcycle use may also be restricted on certain public roads. For details, please contact your local police.