You asked if there are any age restrictions, regulations, licensing requirements or any general laws pertaining to types of bikes such as gas-powered Mini Chopper bikes.

SUMMARY

The gas-powered Mini Chopper and similar bikes fall within the statutory definitions of minibikes or minicycles and bicycles with helper motors. The use of these bikes is regulated in much the same way as regular bicycles. But, the operator of a bicycle with a helper motor, unlike regular bicycles, must be at least age 16 and hold either a valid motor vehicle or motorcycle operator’s license.

MINIBIKES, MINICYCLES, AND BIKES WITH HELPER MOTORS

Minibikes or minicycles are any two or three-wheel motorcycle with at least one of the following characteristics: nominal wheel rim diameter of 10 inches or less; wheel base measuring 40 inches or less; seat height of 25 inches or less; or a motor with 50 cubic centimeters or less piston displacement (CGS § 14-1(a)(42)).

Bikes with helper motors are defined as those with a motor that has a capacity of less than 50 cubic centimeters of piston displacement, rated two brake horsepower or less, having an automatic transmission, and capable of reaching maximum speeds of 30 miles per hour or less (CGS § 14-286(e)).

Riders must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and give audible signals within a reasonable distance before overtaking and passing pedestrians or other bicyclists. They cannot operate the bikes on or along a crosswalk or across a road if these activities are prohibited by a local ordinance or State Traffic Commission regulation (CGS § 14-286(a)).

Also, they cannot ride these bikes faster than 30 miles per hour or on sidewalks, limited access highways or turnpikes (CGS § 14-286(b)).

Special permits to operate bikes with helper motors are available to those who are physically disabled and demonstrate that they can ride both bicycles with and without helper motors. The commissioner of Motor Vehicles may set limitations on these permits for specific individuals (CGS § 14-286(c)).

Landowners cannot be held liable for injuries sustained by anyone operating a minibike or minicycle on their land unless they charged a fee for their operation or the injury was caused by their willful or malicious conduct (CGS § 52-557j).

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