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E-BIKE CLASSIFICATIONS:
Last Updated: July 24, 2025
The bike industry has developed a 3-tier Classification system for e-bikes to clearly delineate them from other motorized vehicles. This system is based on the power source and maximum assisted speed of the bicycle.
Class I e-bikes are those in which the motor provides a boost only when a rider is pedaling. The boost cuts out at 20 mph, and the rider must rely on their own muscle power to go any faster than that.
Class II e-bikes are those in which the throttle can be switched to provide a boost up to a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph, without any pedaling required. The boost cuts out at 20 mph, and the rider must rely on their own muscle power to go any faster than that.
Class III e-bikes are pedal-assist like Class I e-bikes, except they have a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph. They are also equipped with a speedometer.
Typically, where e-bikes have been allowed off-road on multiuse trails, they have been Class I and Class II e-bikes and are subject to the same rules and regulations that govern other cyclists.
National Park Service E-Bike Policy:
Superintendents may authorize the use of e-bikes that fall within any of these 3 Classes. Check individual Parks for policy.
BLM offices have the authority to identify which non-motorized trails can be used for e-bike use on BLM-managed lands. Visit; BLM Off-Road Access .
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