The Segway Xyber Air pairs moto-inspired styling with selectable eBike classes, and that combination raises fair questions: Which class is it? Can it be more than one? Does it need registration? This guide explains how US eBike classes work, how the Xyber Air handles them and what to check in your state or city before you ride.
This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. eBike laws vary by location and change often, and every rider is responsible for following local laws.
The Three US eBike Classes
Many states sort eBikes into three classes:
- Class 1: pedal assist only, up to 20 mph.
- Class 2: throttle and pedal assist, up to 20 mph.
- Class 3: pedal assist up to 28 mph.
The class determines where you can ride and which rules apply, such as age limits, helmet requirements and, in some states, licensing or registration. Not every state uses these classes the same way, and some cities add their own rules on top of state law.
How the Xyber Air Handles eBike Classes
The Xyber Air can be set up as a Class 1, Class 2 or Class 3 eBike in the Segway Mobility App, where permitted by law. Only one class is active at a time, so you choose the setting that matches the rules where you ride.
- Class 1 and Class 2: up to 20 mph. Class 2 adds the throttle.
- Class 3: pedal assist up to 28 mph, where permitted by law.
- Hybrid Mode: throttle to 20 mph and pedal assist to 28 mph, where permitted by law. Hybrid Mode is not available in California.
It’s powered by a 750 W rated motor with up to 80 Nm of torque, and Segway rates it at 0 to 20 mph in about 6 seconds. The Xyber Air is UL 2271 and UL 2849 certified.
Local Rules Vary: What to Check Before You Ride
Here are a few examples of how the rules differ. Check the current requirements where you live, since they can change.
- California: the Xyber Air is set as a Class 2 eBike by default and can be switched to Class 3 in the app. Only one class can be active at a time, and Hybrid Mode is not available.
- New Jersey: Class 2 and Class 3 eBikes require a license, registration and insurance.
- New York: New York State limits eBikes to 20 mph. New York City allows up to 25 mph within the city only. That means Class 3 at 28 mph isn’t an option in New York, so use Class 1 or Class 2.
- Age limits: Class 3 eBikes often have a minimum rider age of 16.
- Helmets: many places require minors to wear a helmet by law.
If you’re not sure which class fits your area, start with Class 1 or Class 2 and check your state and local rules before switching.
Moto Looks, eBike Rules
With 20 × 4.0-inch tires, 80 mm front suspension and its moto-inspired frame, the Xyber Air looks bigger than a typical eBike. It’s still built to ride as a Class 1, 2 or 3 eBike, and the same class rules apply to it as to any other eBike. Want to compare it with Segway’s off-road model? Read Xyber Air vs. Xyber.
Ride Responsibly
- Wear a helmet every ride: a properly fitted helmet is a must, whatever your age.
- Start slow: begin in the lowest assist level and work up as you get comfortable with the bike.
- Use the rider aids as a backup, not a substitute: Traction Control System helps reduce rear-wheel slip on loose surfaces, and Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist help on slopes. They assist you but don’t replace your own control.
- Read the user manual: go over the controls, braking and class settings before your first ride.
New to eBikes? Start with how to ride an electric bike.
What You Get for $1,999.99
At an MSRP of $1,999.99, the Xyber Air includes a 717 Wh battery rated for up to 58 miles, 80 mm front suspension and hydraulic disc brakes. It also comes with AirLock keyless locking, Apple Find My, GPS location tracking and a TFT display. GPS location tracking and other network and cloud-based services are free for the first year and require a subscription after that.
Get the full overview in Meet the Segway Xyber Air, see what testers said in Segway Xyber Air Reviews, or see how it stacks up in Xyber Air vs. SUPER73 and Macfox.
Want to try it first? Book a test ride at a Segway dealer near you → Model availability varies by dealer, so call ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Segway Xyber Air street legal?
The Xyber Air is designed to be ridden on public roads as a Class 1, 2 or 3 eBike, where permitted by law. Requirements such as speed limits, age limits, licensing and registration vary by state and city, so check your local rules.
Can the Xyber Air be Class 2 and Class 3 at the same time?
No. Only one class is active at a time, and you choose it in the Segway Mobility App. Hybrid Mode (throttle to 20 mph and pedal assist to 28 mph) is available where permitted by law and is not available in California.
Does the Xyber Air need registration or insurance?
It depends on where you live. In New Jersey, for example, Class 2 and Class 3 eBikes require a license, registration and insurance. Check the current rules in your state.
How old do you need to be to ride a Class 3 eBike?
Age limits vary by location, but Class 3 eBikes often have a minimum rider age of 16.
How much does the Segway Xyber Air cost?
The Segway Xyber Air has an MSRP of $1,999.99.