"Does anyone really think the current ebike regulations are going to stand the test of time? "
Yes -- unless ebike riders abuse their current privileges under whatever laws cover them, and then things could get ugly.
In Oregon allows Class 1 ebikes are allowed in bike lanes (with some exceptions in state parks & recreation areas). Class 2 and 3s are prohibited in bike lanes (but not on the street proper). I'm fine with that, and I sure hope it stays that way. What I won't be fine with is a tide of pissed off drivers or non ebike riders who get fed up with what they consider dangerously fast ebikes and push to eliminate ALL ebikes from bike lanes.
Are you sure about that? When I read the current Oregon Revised Statues they say a couple of pertinent things.
1)
ORS 814.405 - an electric assisted bicycle shall be considered a bicycle, rather than a motor vehicle, for purposes of the Oregon Vehicle Code, except when otherwise specifically provided by statute. [1997 c.400 §4]
2)
ORS 801.258 -
“Electric assisted bicycle.” “Electric assisted bicycle” means a vehicle that:
(1) Is designed to be operated on the ground on wheels;
(2) Has a seat or saddle for use of the rider;
(3) Is designed to travel with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground;
(4) Has both fully operative pedals for human propulsion and an electric motor; and
(5)
Is equipped with an electric motor that:
(a) Has a power output of not more than 1,000 watts; and
(b)
Is incapable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of greater than 20 miles per hour on level ground. [1997 c.400 §2; 1999 c.59 §233]
The only exception I could find in the other various statutes is:
1) A person commits the offense of unsafe operation of a bicycle on a sidewalk if the person does any of the following:
(e) Operates an electric assisted bicycle on a sidewalk .
The key to ORS 801.258 (5) is to read it in the proper context:
Is equipped with an electric motor that is incapable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of greater than 20 miles an hour on level ground.
This refers to the capability of the
Motor, not a combination of the motor
and human assist via pedal power.
Maybe some cities have additional local statutes?