E-Bike Safety Campaign
CDOT E-Bike Safety Campaign
CDOT launched the E-Bike Safety Campaign in 2024 to promote safe adoption of e-bikes across Colorado. The campaign is a digital and print education and awareness project focused on e-bike safety.
What are E-Bikes?
Class 1: Pedal-assist only, Max 20 mph.
Class 2: Throttle and pedal-assist, Max 20 mph.
Class 3: Pedal-assist only, Max 28 mph. Requires helmet for riders under 18; minimum rider age 16.
Helmets are strongly recommended regardless of class.
Tampering & Penalties
Modifying speed governors to exceed legal limits reclassifies the bike as a motor vehicle. Anyone who violates regulations pertaining to the manufacturing standards and classification of electric bikes and scooters is subject to a class B traffic infraction, with a fine of $15 and a surcharge of $6.
E-Bike or E-Moto?
If it exceeds 28 mph and/or has more than 750 watts of power, it is an e-moto. These require a driver’s license, registration, and insurance. They are prohibited on bike paths and sidewalks.
Purchasing an E-Bike
When purchasing an e-bike ensure it is labeled Class 1, 2, or 3. Colorado law requires sellers to clearly disclose a vehicle’s classification, motor wattage, and top speed at the point of sale.
Where to Ride
- Class 1 & 2: Generally allowed wherever traditional bicycles are permitted.
- Class 3: Restricted to streets/highways or specifically designated paths.
- Local Rules: Always check local municipal signs, as cities have the authority to further restrict e-bike use on specific trails.
Safety Stop
In Colorado, riders aged 15+ (or younger if with an adult) may treat stop signs as yield signs and red lights as stop signs only when the coast is clear and they have the right of way.
Youth Ridership
As youth e-bike use surges in Colorado, CDOT encourages guardians to take an active role in rider education. To ensure safe riding, verify the e-bike’s classification is either Class 1 or 2 with tamper-resistant speed governors. Explore the Go Safe Go Far videos and resources below to prepare your rider for the road.
Go Safe Go Far Guidelines
Safety keeps us all on the road, commuting, exploring and chasing our goals. When riding an E-Bike, make sure you’re following the rules of the road in your area. To ride responsibly, follow these tips:
- Educate yourself on road rules and use bike paths or bike lanes whenever possible.
- Practice safe mounting and dismounting due to the weight of e-bikes.
- Be visible with lights and reflectors.
- Use warning devices like bells.
- Keep tires properly inflated.
- Slow down ahead of intersections and hazards.
- Wear appropriate gear including a helmet designed for e-bike riders.
Please refer to the FAQ document and the additional resources section for more e-bike information. The FAQ document is updated regularly to reflect changing e-bike policy and technology.
Contact Information: The Mobility Services team at CDOT manages the campaign and can be reached at [email protected].
