E-Bike 101 & Riding Etiquette
Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are permitted for use on public roadways in accordance with State of Michigan regulations. Understanding how e-bikes are defined and classified helps ensure safe and lawful operation.
What Qualifies as an E-Bike
Under Michigan law, an e-bike must have:
Fully operable pedals, an electric motor of 750 watts (1 horsepower) or less, and a seat or saddle for the rider
What Is Not Considered an E-Bike
Devices that are solely throttle- powered without pedals and exceed speeds of 28 mph are not classified as e-bikes and are prohibited from use on public property.
General Operating Requirements
E-bike owners and riders are not required to carry a driver’s license, register their e-bike, or maintain insurance. However, all e-bikes must display a permanent manufacturer label that identifies the bike’s classification, top assisted speed, and motor wattage. Modifying an e-bike to exceed the 750-watt limit or altering its classification without proper labeling is not permitted.
E-Bike Classifications
Michigan law recognizes three classes of e-bikes. Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assisted, meaning the motor only engages when the rider is pedaling, and assistance stops at 20 miles per hour. There is no minimum age requirement to operate a Class 1 e-bike, and helmets are not required. Riders may operate these e-bikes on the right side of the roadway, travel two abreast, and may use a full lane when necessary for turning.
Class 2 e-bikes are equipped with both throttle and pedal-assist capabilities, allowing the motor to engage with or without pedaling. Like Class 1, motor assistance stops at 20 miles per hour. There is no minimum age requirement, and helmets are not required. Operation rules are the same as Class 1, including riding on the right side of the roadway, traveling no more than two abreast, and using a lane when necessary for turning.
Class 3 e-bikes are pedal-assisted only and provide motor assistance up to 28 miles per hour. Riders must be at least 14 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike, and helmets are required for riders between the ages of 14 and 18.
Riding Etiquette
E-bikes may be operated on the right side of the roadway and are limited to no more than two riders riding side by side.
Roller Skate and Skateboard Ordinances
Public Property
It is unlawful to roller skate or ride a skateboard on any posted sidewalk. No riding or skating is permitted on any lands leased or owned by the public in the central business district, described as that area bounded by:
- Church Street
- Hamilton Street
- Harding Street
- Harvey Street
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- Maple Street
- Roe Street
- Union Street
- Wing Street
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Private Property
No person shall roller-skate or ride a skateboard on private property without first obtaining and carrying on their person the written permission of the owner of such private property to allow such skating or riding.Ordinance 70-211 - 70-220.
Violations of either of the above ordinances could result in a citation being issued, skateboard confiscation, and a court appearance and fine. Be advised that fines increase if contact regarding skateboarding continues. A skateboard can be taken and held until proof of payment of fines and costs.