Electric bike riders would have more options in Michigan state parks under a proposed change that could take effect this spring.
The proposed Michigan Department of Natural Resources land use change would allow operation of Class 1 electric bikes on state park-managed nonmotorized trails open to bicycles.
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Under current Michigan law, only Class 1 e-bikes – e-bikes that are pedal-assisted and can go up to 20 miles per hour – are allowed on improved surface trails, which are trails that are paved or consist of gravel or asphalt. Current law also allows for local entities to expand or further regulate e-bike usage in their respective communities.
The proposed DNR land use change would expand allowable e-bike use to include Class 1 e-bikes on natural surface, nonmotorized trails on state park-managed land open to bicycles.
In addition, the proposed change would allow operation of Class 2 e-bikes, which are throttle- and pedal-assisted and can travel up to 20 miles per hour, on both linear paved trails and state park-managed natural surface trails for mobility purposes as long as a cyclist had applied for and received a permit to do so. Currently, Class 2 e-bikes are allowed with a permit only on nonmotorized, natural surface trails (such as mountain bike trails).
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This expansion would not apply on wildlife or state forest land trails that are open to bicycles. Also, Class 3 e-bikes, which are pedal-assisted and have a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour, would remain prohibited on any state-managed land under the new policy.
The 3,000 miles of nonmotorized state park-managed trails open to bicycles that would be affected by this proposed change may be viewed on the DNR’s interactive nonmotorized trail map. If the proposed change is approved, signage indicating allowable e-bike use would be placed at trailheads.
“This change would make trails more accessible for people who may not have the physical ability to ride a traditional bike,” said Tim Novak, the DNR’s state trails coordinator. “This would include individuals living with disabilities, older adults and really anyone who wishes to experience some assistance as they ride a bicycle. Class 1 e-bikes require pedaling, providing a great health benefit to riders.”
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