A DNR land use order approved in August 2024 expanded operation of electric bicycles (e-bikes) on state-managed trails and pathways currently open to bicycles. Whether you can ride an e-bicycle on a state-managed trail depends on several factors, including the e-bike's class, the type of trail and whether the authority that manages or oversees the trail allows the use
Read more about this change in this Showcasing the DNR article.
E-bikes are separated into three classes based on several attributes. 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.
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:
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.
Allowed on improved-surface trails, linear trails, (paved or gravel/asphalt) and natural-surface nonmotorized bicycle trails/pathways in state parks, recreation areas, and state forest pathways and roads.
E-bikes are not allowed in state game and wildlife areas, as well as on congressionally authorized trails like the North Country Trail. Additionally, they are not allowed on the 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 nonmotorized trail.
You can ride Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes on all roads where a non-electric bicycle can be ridden. Additionally, you may operate an e-bike on any part of a highway that is open to a bicycle, including, but not limited to, a lane designated for the exclusive use of bicycles on the shoulder.
| Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allowed on roads and bike lanes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Allowed on linear paved trails | Yes, but can be regulated | No | No |
| Allowed on nonmotorized, natural surface trails (i.e. mountain bike trails) | No, but can be authorized | No, but can be authorized | No |
| Allowed on motorized, natural surface trails (such as ORV trails) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 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 |
For a full definition of the laws surrounding e-bikes in Michigan, please view section 257.662a of the Michigan Vehicle Code.
