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Below are listed the three critical amendments to the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS). In my opinion, it seems that motorized bicycles with sub 35.01cc engines fit in to the category of "Motor Assisted Scooter." With that comes the ability to access bike lanes and paths under motored power. It also means no registration, license plates, or insurance. But it also demands riders have to wear a bike helmet, though not a DOT approved motorcycle helmet. Lighting calls for typical bike lights and reflectors.
801.348 - "Motor assisted scooter"
Motor assisted scooter." means a vehicle that:
(1) Is designed to be operated on the ground with not more than three wheels;
(2) Has handlebars and a foot support or seat for the operator's use;
(3) Can be propelled by motor or human propulsion; and
(4) Is equipped with a power source that is incapable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of greater than 24 miles per hour on level ground and:
(a) If the power source is a combustion engine, has a piston or rotor displacement of 35 cubic centimeters or less regardless of the number of chambers in the power source; or
(b) If the power source is electric, has a power output of not more than 1,000 watts.
[2001 c.749 §2]
801.345 - "Moped"
Moped." means a vehicle, including any bicycle equipped with a power source, other than an electric assisted bicycle as defined in ORS 801.258 or a motor assisted scooter as defined in ORS 801.348, that complies with all of the following:
(1) It is designed to be operated on the ground upon wheels.
(2) It has a seat or saddle for use of the rider.
(3) It is designed to travel with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground.
(4) It is equipped with an independent power source that:
(a) Is capable of propelling the vehicle, unassisted, at a speed of not more than 30 miles per hour on a level road surface; and
(b) If the power source is a combustion engine, has a piston or rotor displacement of 35.01 to 50 cubic centimeters regardless of the number of chambers in the power source.
(5) It is equipped with a power drive system that functions directly or automatically only and does not require clutching or shifting by the operator after the system is engaged.
[1983 c.338 §59; 1985 c.16 §19; 1997 c.400 §5; 2001 c.749 §25]
814.310 - Illegal alteration of moped; penalty
(1) A person commits the offense of illegal alteration of a moped if the person alters or modifies in any manner a vehicle registered in this state so that:
(a) The displacement of the engine is increased beyond that allowable for a moped under ORS 801.345; or
(b) The vehicle is capable of moving, unassisted, at a speed of more than 30 miles per hour on a level road surface.
(2) The offense described in this section, illegal alteration of a moped, is a Class C traffic violation.
[1983 c.338 §285; 1985 c.16 §117; 1985 c.401 §13]
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