With e-bike use rising across the country, the Michigan DNR has approved class 1 and class 2 (for mobility only) e-bikes on select DNR-managed trails. This expansion follows months of collaborative research and discussion with trail users and organizations.
Allowed in state parks, recreation areas and state forest pathways with the exception of the North Country Trail, High Country, Shingle Mill and Pickerel Lake pathways within the Pigeon River Country.
If a cyclist has a DNR-issued permit (no cost) for mobility issues, Class 2 e-bikes are allowed in all areas open to Class 1 e-bikes.
Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on any state-managed trail.
* E-bikes are not allowed on trails in state game and wildlife areas.
You can ride Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes on all roads where a non-electric bicycle can be ridden.
An e-bike is a bicycle that has a small rechargeable electric motor that can give a boost to the pedaling rider or can take over pedaling completely. To qualify as an e-bike in Michigan, the bike must meet the following requirements:
A permanent label must be affixed on the e-bike that accurately identifies its class type.
After purchase, if the bike is altered in a way that changes its class type, a new label meeting the legal criteria must be affixed that accurately identifies the new class type.
E-bikes are separated into three classes based on several attributes.
Pedal-assisted, up to 20 miles per hour
Equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and disengages or ceases to function when the bike reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour.
Throttle- and pedal-assisted, up to 20 miles per hour
Equipped with a motor that propels the bike, whether the rider is pedaling or not, to a speed of no more than 20 miles per hour, and disengages or ceases to function when the brakes are applied or throttle is released. Has throttle and pedal assist.
Pedal-assisted, up to 28 miles per hour
Equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and disengages or ceases to function when the bike reaches a speed of 28 miles per hour.
| Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum age to operate | None | None | 14 |
| Rider required to wear helmet | No | No | Yes, if ages 14-18 years |
| Rider must pedal for motor to engage | Yes | No | Yes |
| Maximum speed for motor assist | 20 | 20 | 28 |
Because e-motos are high-powered and fast, they pose serious safety risks to trail users. To operate an e-moto legally in Michigan, you must register the vehicle and follow all state motor vehicle and/or off-road vehicle regulations.
Under Michigan law, e-motos are classified as motor vehicles (such as electric mopeds, motorcycles or dirt bikes) – not e-bikes. A vehicle is considered an e-moto if it meets any of the following criteria:
For a full definition of the laws surrounding e-bikes in Michigan, please view section 257.662a of the Michigan Vehicle Code.
For more information on e-bike use in Michigan, please visit the League of Michigan Bicyclists.
