E-Bikes

E-Bikes in Michigan: What to Know, Where to Ride, and How to Ride Smart 

Electric bicycles or e-bikes are changing the way people ride around Michigan. E-bikes support local economies and make biking more accessible, allowing people to get around efficiently and affordably—whether for transportation, recreation, or health.

Whether you’re new to e-bikes or already familiar, this page is here to help you understand the basics, ride responsibly, and feel confident out there. Below you’ll find information on e-bikes, e-motos, the differences between them, as well as the growing grey area and confusion surrounding e-motos.

Our Role at LMB

The League of Michigan Bicyclists advocacy work includes:

  • Protecting access for e-bike users where appropriate
  • Clarifying the distinction between e-bikes and higher-powered devices
  • Advocating for policies that keep all cyclists safe

As e-bike use grows, getting this right matters more than ever.

Learn more about how LMB is currently advocating to address rising e-moto issues in Michigan and how you can use your voice to help protect access for all cyclists at the bottom of this page. 

What Is a Legal E-Bike?

Under Michigan Compiled Law (MCL 257.13e) an electric bike (e-bike) is defined by a seat, pedals, and an electric motor of 750 watts or less. In Michigan, an e-bike is defined as a bicycle with:

  • A seat or saddle
  • Fully operable pedals
  • An electric motor of 750 watts or less

E-bikes that meet these standards are treated like bicycles under most state laws.

E-Bike Classes Explained

In 2017, Michigan legalized e-bikes statewide and created a three-class system that defines e-bikes and how they are regulated for riders and trail access:

  • A class 1 e-bike can be motor-assisted up to 20 miles per hour when pedaling.
  • A class 2 e-bike can also have a throttle to engage the motor without pedaling.
  • A class 3 e-bike can be motor-assisted up to 28 miles per hour when pedaling.

All three are treated as bicycles under most state laws, but where you can ride them varies by class.

Under this law:

  • Manufacturers and distributors must permanently affix labels indicating classification number, wattage, and top assisted speed
  • E-bikes are treated like bicycles for most rights and duties
  • Additionally, “a device shall not be considered an electric bicycle if the motor is modified” in a way that changes its original classification, or increases the motor’s wattage above 750.

E-Bike vs. E-Moto: Know the Difference

Michigan’s 2017 e-bike law established a clear three-class system that distinguishes low-speed electric bicycles from motor vehicles. This system has been essential in promoting sustainable transportation, increasing accessibility, and ensuring safety on shared-use paths.

However, the rise of high-powered, motorcycle-like vehicles, often called “e-motos,” is threatening this progress. These vehicles are frequently mislabeled as e-bikes to bypass safety regulations and equipment standards, creating confusion for consumers and safety risks for all road and trail users.

What Is an E-moto or Out-of-Class Electric Vehicle (OCEV)?

Not every electric two-wheeled ride qualifies as an e-bike. Devices that:

  • Exceed 750 watts
  • Can go over 28 mph under motor assist
  • Lack fully operable pedals
  • Functions more like a throttle-powered vehicle >20 mph
  • Are designed to circumvent class limits

Are not legal e-bikes, and may be considered motor vehicles like motorcycles, scooters, ORVs, or mopeds (requiring registration, license, insurance) or prohibited on bike infrastructure.

This category often includes e-motos — off-road or motor-bike-like electric vehicles disguised as e-bikes. These devices pose legal and safety risks and are not covered under the three-class system.

Key illegal features:

  • Motor power >750 W
  • Top assisted speeds beyond class limits
  • Modes that switch into high-speed “off-road” without pedaling
  • Removing/detaching pedals entirely
  • “Hacking” legal devices to operate illegally

Because federal law defines low-speed e-bikes only up to 20 mph (and state laws expand that to 28 mph for Class 3), anything outside that definition loses the protections and access rights provided by e-bike statutes.

Why this matters:

  • It may not be allowed on bike paths or trails
  • It can create safety conflicts
  • It puts access for legitimate e-bike users and all cyclists at risk

Take a closer look:

E-bike vs. E-moto Infographic

Where Can You Ride an E-Bike in Michigan?

E-bikes are generally allowed anywhere traditional bicycles are permitted, including roads, bike lanes, and shoulders. No license, registration, or insurance is required under Michigan law. Sidewalk use may depend on local ordinances.

Trail access varies by e-bike class (MCL 324.72105(2) and MCL 257.657) and who manages the property, so always check local rules and posted signage.

CLASS 1: Allowed on roads, bike lanes, and many paved non-motorized trails such as rail-trails. Some unpaved trails may allow Class 1 where specifically authorized.

CLASS 2 & 3: Allowed on roads and bike lanes. Access to paved trails and rail-trails depends on approval from the local authority. Always check local trail rules. One trail might allow Class 2, another might not.

OCEVs: Higher-powered electric vehicles that fall outside Michigan’s e-bike definition may require registration and street-legal equipment for road use. They are not treated the same as e-bikes.

 

Natural Surface Trails (Mountain Bike Trails)

While e-bikes are generally prohibited on natural surface trails, access depends on the land manager. Many non-motorized dirt trails prohibit e-bikes unless specifically opened to them. Always check local trail rules.

Examples include:

  • Michigan DNR lands: E-bike use is only allowed where designated. (For the most up to date info regarding DNR rules and regulations, please visit their E-bikes in Michigan page.)
  • County parks & city trails: Rules vary by community.
  • Other public lands: Access depends on local or agency policy.

 

Why It Can Be Confusing

Rules can differ from one trail or community to the next, and some vehicles marketed as “e-bikes” may not meet Michigan’s legal definition. Clear signage and public education are key. When in doubt, check with the local park, trail manager, or municipality before you ride.

Safety, Rules, & Etiquette

Rules of the Road

E-bikes follow the same traffic rules as traditional bicycles, including:

  • Obey traffic signals
  • Ride with traffic, ride predictably
  • Signal turns
  • Yield to pedestrians

Helmets are recommended (especially Class 3). Although helmets  are not required statewide, some municipalities do require them. Check your local ordinances.

Trail / Path Etiquette

In addition to practicing courtesy, communication, and common sense, responsible e-bikes users should:

  • Stay within posted speed limits (It’s easy to go too fast on an e-bike. Start out slow, know your limits and stay in control at all times.)
  • Yield to pedestrians and traditional bike traffic 
  • Use audible signals when passing (E-bike riders should slow down and warn by bell or voice “On your left!” when passing. You’re required by MI law to yield and warn on sidewalks.)
  • Slow down when passing or near other trail users (Yield to horseback riders. Stop, Speak and Stand Back when you encounter an equestrian. Stop to give the horse and rider time to pass, Speak to communicate your presence and location, and Stand Back to give the horse space — move off on the lower side if possible, and don’t hide behind a tree.)

Safety Tips

  • Practice braking and throttle control – braking takes longer from higher speeds
  • Understand battery discharge and range
  • Be mindful of heavier weight and longer stopping distances on e-bikes

 

Maintenance & Travel

Battery & Storage

  • Store batteries in a dry, temperature-controlled area
  • Cold weather charging can damage the battery
  • Ensure charged batteries are not near combustible materials

Travel & Racks

  • Use racks rated for the weight of an e-bike
  • Remove batteries for travel when possible

Routine Checks

  • Tire pressure and brake function
  • Chain and drivetrain wear
  • Motor operation and cables
  • Battery condition

Buying from a local bike shop increases access to service and compatible parts. Not all bike shops will work on OCEV, or even legal e-bike brands they do not sell or carry insurance for.

Legislative Recommendations & Advocacy

What We Are Considering

Our advocacy efforts include:

  1. Protect the 3-Class framework – resist over-regulation that treats e-bikes like motor vehicles
  2. OCEV/e-moto legislation – clarify legal definitions, distinctions and regulations for out-of-class vehicles and retailers who sell them
  3. Clear trail access policies – coordinate among DNR, local parks, and advocacy organizations
  4. Education and signage  – on shared paths and throughout our community

Timeline of Actions

  • Short Term: Educate riders and land managers; push for consistent signage and speed postings.
  • Mid Term: Advocate for local ordinances that keep e-bikes on bike-appropriate infrastructure.
  • Long Term: Encourage model policies that protect low-speed e-bike access while regulating out-of-class devices.

Calls to Action

Here’s how you can help right now:

Use your voice today. Contact your legislators.
Encourage your representatives to protect the 3-class system for e-bikes and clearly define e-motos. Tell them that this legislation matters and why it matters to you. It only takes a minute, but your voice carries serious weight. Take action and click below: 

Take Action Here

Here’s what else you can do:

  • Ask your city/county boards to avoid blanket bans and align with state law to reduce cross-municipality changes in law 
  • Ask your city/county boards to adopt clear e-bike access policies that allow e-bikes on shared use paths
  • Promote signage at trailheads or common spaces to post regulations and clarify where e-bikes are permitted

 

Resources

   

Educational Media