Has anybody registered a custom-built motorized bicycle in Ohio?

GoldenMotor.com

GigaG

New Member
Apr 30, 2016
1
0
0
Toledo
Despite the fact that there are provisions in Ohio law for a "non-manufacturer" to make a motorized bicycle, the DMV claims you need a bike from an "approved list" of models that are hard to find and more expensive than converting your own bicycle.

My question is - has anybody here succeeded in registering a custom-built/converted motorized bicycle with the state of Ohio? Or do I need to send a form to Columbus to get it approved? I'm talking about a <50cc motor and meeting every other requirement (horn, rearview, etc.) to be considered a "motorized bicycle" by law, but is not on the "list."
 

Barnfresh

Member
Sep 5, 2011
205
10
18
Nor-Cal
Just scrolling down the list of Ohio approved Mopeds there are several odd balls which appear (to me anyway) are not manufactured Mopeds.
http://www.bmv.ohio.gov/links/bmv_Approved-Moped-Models.pdf

Schwinn La-Jolla-Street Cruiser
Thruster-Fixie/48 cc
P.W. Cruisermoto
Motorbike (4strk)
Jager Model EB-1Z4-BA
Quest Motorized Bike

I'm guessing these are probably Motorized Bicycles which were added to the approved list after their owner's completed the BMV 4509 Certification of Compliance Form: http://publicsafety.ohio.gov/links/bmv4509.pdf

Since someone else has already done the hard work just pick one of these MBs and go with it. You can use any frame and just put corresponding decals and stickers on it once you're done with your build.

Schwinn La-Jolla-Street Cruiser is a good one (although I don't think Schwinn actually made one). Kent La Jolla cruiser bicycles are sold at Walmart.
Check out this sweet La Jolla based build: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=SWECNkpq1zA

Find out more on registering your Moped in Ohio here:http://www.bmv.ohio.gov/vr-other-moped.aspx
 
Last edited: