E-Bikes
Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, are becoming popular across Ohio. HCHD wants to provide educational resources to keep residents riding safe.
Public Health Benefits of Electric Bikes
There are a variety of benefits that come from utilizing e-bikes, such as:
- Increased physical activity, especially for those who may not otherwise be able to ride a bike.
- Decrease in sedentary car rides.
- Improves mental wellbeing, gets people outside.
- Decrease in CO2 emissions.
- Improves access to transportation.
Safety
E-bike injuries rose by 389% from 2020-2024 in the United States. JAMA, June 30, 2024
Safe Riding tips:
- Make sure bike is appropriate for age, size, and skill level.
- Know where you can ride.
- Obey traffic laws.
- Use hand signals.
- Always wear a helmet.
- Increase stopping distance when using an e-bike, especially in wet conditions.
- Click on the image to watch a video from Napoleon PD on safe stopping distance on e-bikes.
Bicycles of any type are not permitted on sidewalks in the downtown business district of Napoleon. Napoleon City Ordinance 373.13
Characteristics of each E-bike Class
While most laws apply to both bicycles and e-bikes, there are some laws specific to certain classes of e-bikes. Ohio law (ORC 4511.522), recognizes there are three types of electric bicycles:
Class 1
Provides power only when you pedal; It has no independent throttle.
The motor stops helping when the bike reaches 20mph.
Allowed on most traditional bike paths, multi-use trails, and road bike lanes, unless otherwise noted.
Class 2
Features both pedal-assist and a hand or thumb throttle that can propel the bike without pedaling.
Power delivery stops at 20mph for both the assist and the throttle.
Permitted in the same areas as Class 1 bikes, though some local off-road trails restrict throttles.
Class 3
Pedal assist only (no independent throttle).
The motor supports speeds up to 28mph.
Operators must be 16 or older. Helmets are required.
Allowed on regular roadways and street adjacent bike lanes.