Regulate the Use of Electric Bicycles in the State of Minnesota

 

The purpose of this bill is to increase the safety and health of Minnesota residents by regulating the use of electric

bicycles. This bill establishes an age requirement, mandatory safety course, and licensing process, sidewalk

restrictions, and stricter enforcement of speed limits. These measures will ensure e-bikes are operated responsibly and

do not pose risks to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.

 

Electric bicycles have become increasingly popular across Minnesota, but their rapid growth has created safety hazards

and led to a decline in physical activity among younger riders. E-bikes often reach unsafe speeds, are ridden on

sidewalks where pedestrians walk, and are used by untrained or underage riders. This creates accidents and public safety

concerns, especially in urban areas.

While traditional bicycles promote physical fitness, e-bikes can discourage exercise when used unnecessarily. At the

same time, the bill acknowledges that older Minnesotans and individuals with limited mobility use e-bikes as a healthy

way to get fresh air and maintain their independence. Therefore, this bill does not ban e-bikes but instead ensures that

they are operated safely and responsibly.

 

Electric Bicycle (E-bike): A bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts

that provides assistance when pedaling.

Class 1 E-bike: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and stops assisting at 20 mph.

Class 2 E-bike: Can propel the bicycle without pedaling (throttle-assist) but stops assisting at 20 mph.

Class 3 E-bike: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and stops assisting at 28 mph.

Operator: Any person riding or controlling an e-bike.

Public Sidewalk: Any walkway designated primarily for pedestrians, not vehicles or bicycles.

 

Funding for the e-bike safety course and licensing system shall come from a $25 annual registration fee for each

licensed e-bike operator. This revenue will be allocated to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) for

administration, enforcement, and safety education.

 

Licensing Requirement: All e-bike operators must complete a state-approved safety course and obtain an e-bike operator’s

license from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Minimum age for operation is 16 years old.

Sidewalk Restriction: E-bikes may not be operated on sidewalks unless specifically designated by local ordinance.

Speed Limit Enforcement: Class 1 and 2 e-bikes must not exceed 20 mph, and Class 3 e-bikes must not exceed 28 mph.

Violations will result in a fine of up to $150.

Penalties: Operating an e-bike without a license: $200 fine. Riding on sidewalks where prohibited: $100 fine.

Tampering with motor speed limiters: $300 fine and possible license suspension.

Enforcement Agency: The Minnesota Department of Public Safety and local law enforcement agencies shall be responsible

for enforcing the provisions of this bill.

 

This act shall take effect January 1, 2027, allowing sufficient time for public awareness campaigns, development of the

safety course, and creation of the licensing system.