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E-bikes in Michigan

A person on an e-bike on a paved path on a sunny day with green grass in the background

E-bikes in Michigan

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-bike classes

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:

  • It must have a seat or saddle for the rider to sit.
  • There must be fully operational pedals.
  • It must have an electric motor of no more than 750 watts (or 1 horsepower).
Graphic with one lightening bolt showing class 1 e-bike

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.

Graphic with two lightening bolts showing class 2 e-bike

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.

Graphic with three lightening bolts showing class 3 e-bike

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.

Riding Class 1 and 2 e-bikes on DNR-managed trails and pathways currently open to bicycles

Class 1 e-bikes

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 on state game and wildlife areas, congressionally authorized trails such at the North Country Trail or on these three pathways in the Pigeon River Country: High Country; Shingle Mill; and Pickerel Lake.

Class 2 e-bikes

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.

Riding e-bikes on city, county and state roads

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.

What's required for each class?

  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

Additional information

For a full definition of the laws surrounding e-bikes in Michigan, please view section 257.662a of the Michigan Vehicle Code.