Motorized Bicycle Policy

Safety and Security have long been top priorities at Harvard Business School. In an effort to maintain a safe campus HBS has developed a plan for campus use of Motorized Bicycles or Scooters (MBS). Use has become more popular in the recent months, which makes it necessary to incorporate a safe usage policy for our campus. Our hope is to provide a safe balance between the convenient use of MBS on campus and keeping a safe pedestrian environment for all.

HBS Operations has developed a motorized bicycle/scooter/Segway parking area adjacent to the parking lot near the little house tunnel entrance. (SEE MAP BELOW) In addition to the state requirements by law stated below the use of a MBS on campus must also follow these additional rules.

  • May only be driven on vehicular campus roadways: Gordon Road, Batten Way and parking lot. This does not include any interior campus roadway

  • Cannot be driven on any campus walkways.

  • "Parking” is only available at the dedicated location near the parking lot (see map below).

  • Must follow all speed limits and vehicle operating regulations for the campus.

  • May be registered with HUPD.

Map for Motorized bicycles and scooters on the Harvard Business School Campus

Definitions & Massachusetts State Law

Motorized Bicycle

A pedal bicycle which has a helper motor, or a non-pedal bicycle which has a motor, with a cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty (50) cubic centimeters, an automatic transmission, and which is capable of a maximum speed of no more than thirty (30) miles per hour (mph). Operation of Motorized Bicycle Under Massachusetts law, mopeds fall into the category of “motorized bicycles” (with or without pedals) and are therefore regulated by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles. Individuals must have a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license to operate a motorized bicycle or moped. Mopeds must have automatic transmissions and cylinder capacities of no more than 50 cubic centimeters. In addition, mopeds must meet all federal motor vehicle safety standards and have maximum speeds of no more than 30 mph. The following limitations apply:

  • Individuals may not operate at speeds greater than 25 mph

  • Individuals may not operate on state highways or limited-access roads with signs prohibiting bicycles

  • Individuals may not operate on off-street recreational paths

  • Individuals may use bicycle lanes along roadways

  • Individuals must use the proper hand signals before stopping or turning

  • Individuals and their passengers must wear United States Department of Transportation (US DOT) approved helmets when operating

  • Individuals may not carry passengers while operating on a permit

For more information please visit: http://www.mass.gov/rmv/mcmanual/index.htm