For a genuine escape from high gasoline prices, electric bikes and scooters provide fast, fun, gas-free transportation. Several options are available now, with more coming soon. The market for electric two-wheelers is promising, but it's also still young and volatile ? buyers should focus on quality, experts say. Below we'll offer four rules for choosing an e-ride.

Pedelecs and E-Bikes
There are two types of electric-assist bicycles: pedelecs and e-bikes. On a pedelec, the rider must pedal to activate the electric assist; on an e-bike, you simply turn a throttle. Federal law limits electric-assist power to 750 watts; 500 watts in Canada. (Laws governing electric bikes and scooters vary by state regarding licensing, insurance, titling, helmet use, lights, operator age, top speed and more. Check your state's regulations at .)
Experts seem to agree that consumers should expect to spend more than $500 for an e-bike that can deliver the necessary performance, durability and reliability.

Electric scooters
The term 'e-scooter' applies to a wide variety of machines. At one extreme, they're electric versions of classic Vespa scooters (think Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday). Powered by 1,500- to 2,000-watt motors, these machines are solid rivals for their 49cc gas-powered counterparts in performance and price but without the noise, tailpipe pollution and reliance on gasoline. At the other extreme, they're standup platform scooters ? beefed-up versions of children's sidewalk scooters. They're intended for short trips; unlike bikes, they have no pedals. Many of the smaller models lack seats and fold up.

Watts and Amps
The power of gas engines is measured in either cubic centimeters (cc) or horsepower, but electric motors are rated in watts ? and the higher the wattage, the better. View wattage claims with skepticism, especially from less established manufacturers or online retailers. Knock-off makers and sellers often overrate motors. A favorite trick is to list the motor's peak wattage as its continuous power rating, but since a motor can run at peak for only a few seconds without damage, this is misleading.