E-Bikes

E-BIKES SAFETY
E-bikes safety and regulations graphic showing an ebike motor and title text
The City of Monroe has updated rules for e-bikes, e-scooters and other micro-mobility devices to help keep riders,
 pedestrians, drivers and trail users safe.

The updated ordinance, 26-006, does not prohibit e-bikes throughout the City. Instead, they clarify where e-bikes and similar devices may be used, where they are not permitted, and how riders are expected to operate safely in shared spaces.

For transportation, recreation or convenience, please remember: Monroe’s trails, parks, sidewalks and roadways are shared spaces. By slowing down, yielding to pedestrians, following posted signs and riding responsibly, everyone can help keep Monroe safe and welcoming for all users.

When operating an e-bike or similar device, riders should:
  • Follow all traffic laws and posted signs
  • Yield to pedestrians
  • Signal audibly before passing
  • Ride at a safe and controlled speed not to exceed 10 MPH
  • Stay on approved roadways, bike lanes, sidewalks or paved trailways
  • Watch for posted restrictions
  • Slow down near walkers, children, pets, seniors and congested areas
  • Pass on the left only when it is safe to do so
  • Maintain control of the device at all times
More information on e-bikes in the City can be found below.
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What Counts as an E-Bike?

An electric bicycle, commonly called an e-bike, is a bicycle with pedals and an electric motor that assists the rider.

The City recognizes three classes of e-bikes:

  • Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
  • Class 2: Throttle-assisted, with a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
  • Class 3: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph.

Please note: A Class 3 e-bike may be capable of reaching 28 mph, but that does not mean it may be operated at that speed on trails, sidewalks, park paths or other non-roadway areas. Posted speed limits and local rules still apply.

Where E-Bikes Are Permitted?

CITY STREETS
 E-bikes may be operated on City streets. Riders must follow all applicable traffic laws, traffic signals and traffic control devices.

BIKE LANES
E-bikes are permitted in bike lanes. Riders should travel safely, predictably and in the proper direction of travel.

CITY TRAILS
E-bikes and approved micro-mobility devices may be used on City trailways unless signs prohibit their operation. In non-roadway areas where no speed limit is posted, riders may not exceed 10 mph.

CITY PARKS
E-bikes, e-scooters and similar approved micro-mobility devices may be used on approved paved trailways in City parks unless otherwise posted. In non-roadway areas where no speed limit is posted, riders may not exceed 10 mph.

Where E-Bikes Are Not Permitted?

E-bikes and similar devices are not permitted in areas where signs prohibit their operation
They are also not permitted on natural surface trails:
  • Munson Park Trails
Riders should always watch for posted signage. Signs control whether e-bikes or similar devices may be used in a specific area.

The updated rules do not allow motorcycles, dirt bikes, mini bikes, ATVs, four-wheelers, snowmobiles or other recreational motorized vehicles on City trails or in City parks.  The ordinance also prohibits attaching an e-bike, e-scooter or other micro-mobility device to a moving vehicle.

Sidewalks and Downtown Areas

Riders should use extra caution on sidewalks. Always yield to pedestrians, slow down and follow posted restrictions.

E-bikes are not prohibited on every sidewalk in the City of Monroe.  All bikes, including traditional, e-bike, scooters, etc., must be walked in Downtown Monroe in the areas highlighted below.

Maps of restricted biking area

City Parks and Trailways

In City parks, motorized vehicles must remain on designated paved roadways and parking lots unless otherwise permitted. E-bikes, e-scooters, e-roller blades, e-roller skates and similar micro-mobility devices may be operated on approved paved trailways, provided riders follow posted speed limits and all posted restrictions.

Unless otherwise posted, e-bikes and similar micro-mobility devices are not allowed to operate on unapproved trails, natural surface trails, playground areas or restricted park spaces.
Trail Etiquette graphic

Speed Limits

Riders must obey all posted speed limits on roads, sidewalks and trailways.

In non-roadway areas where no speed limit is posted, riders may not exceed 10 mph.

This applies to e-bikes regardless of class. A Class 3 e-bike is still subject to trail, sidewalk, park and non-roadway speed limits.

Pedestrians Have the Right-of-Way

Pedestrians always have the right-of-way.

When riding an e-bike, e-scooter or similar micro-mobility device, operators must yield to pedestrians and operate in a safe and courteous manner.

When passing another trail user or pedestrian, riders must provide an audible signal. This can include saying “On your left,” using a bicycle bell or giving another clear audible warning before passing.