E-Bike Safety And Guidelines

Know the Rules. Ride Responsibly.

E-bikes, e-scooters, and motorized bicycles are becoming increasingly popular. Whether you are riding to school, around the neighborhood, or throughout the community, it is important to understand Minnesota's laws and safety requirements.

Know the Rules – Minnesota State Statute 169.222 –  E-Bicycle

E-bike/E-scooter riders must follow the same traffic laws as bicyclists, detailed in Minnesota State Statute 169.222 in the link above.

The following is a summary of select guidelines and rules provided under the applicable state statute. This list is intended for informational purposes only and is not comprehensive or exhaustive. For a complete and accurate understanding of all applicable requirements, guidelines, exceptions, and provisions, please refer directly to the full text of the state statute. In the event of any discrepancy or conflict between this summary and the statute, the statute shall control.
• Minimum age: You must be 15 years of age or older to operate an electric-assisted bicycle.
• A person may operate a class 1 or class 2 electric-assisted bicycle with the motor engaged on a bicycle path, bicycle trail, or shared use path unless prohibited under section 85.015, subdivision 1d; 85.018, subdivision 2, paragraph (d); or 160.263, subdivision 2, paragraph (b), as applicable.
• A person may operate a class 3 electric-assisted bicycle or multiple mode electric-assisted bicycle with the motor engaged on a bicycle path, bicycle trail, or shared use path unless the local authority or state agency having jurisdiction over the bicycle path or trail prohibits the operation.
• The local authority or state agency having jurisdiction over a trail or over a bike park that is designated as nonmotorized and that has a natural surface tread made by clearing and grading the native soil with no added surfacing materials may regulate the operation of an electric-assisted bicycle.
• The manufacturer or distributor of an electric-assisted bicycle must apply a label to the bicycle that is permanently affixed in a prominent location. The label must contain the class number, top assisted speed, and motor wattage of the electric-assisted bicycle, and must be printed in a legible font with at least 9-point type. A multiple mode electric-assisted bicycle must have labeling that identifies the highest class or each of the electric-assisted bicycle classes in which it is capable of operating.
• A person must not modify an electric-assisted bicycle to change the motor-powered speed capability or motor engagement so that the bicycle no longer meets the requirements for the applicable class, unless:
- the person replaces the label required, mentioned above, with revised information; or
- for a vehicle that no longer meets the requirements for any electric-assisted bicycle class, the person removes the labeling as an electric-assisted bicycle.
• An electric-assisted bicycle must operate in a manner so that the electric motor is disengaged or ceases to function: (1) when the brakes are applied; or (2) except for a class 2 electric-assisted bicycle or a multiple mode electric-assisted bicycle operating in class 2 mode, when the rider stops pedaling.
• A class 3 electric-assisted bicycle or multiple mode electric-assisted bicycle must be equipped with a speedometer that displays the speed at which the bicycle is traveling in miles per hour.
• A multiple mode electric-assisted bicycle equipped with a throttle must not be capable of exceeding 20 miles per hour on motorized propulsion alone in any mode when the throttle is engaged.

Know the Rules – Minnesota State Statute 169.223 – Motorized Bicycle

• Minimum age: You must be 15 years of age or older to operate a motorized bicycle.
• Maximum speed: Motorized bicycles are limited to a maximum speed of 20 mph.
• Helmet requirement: Operators under 18 years of age must wear protective headgear.
• Required equipment: To operate on a roadway, the motorized bicycle must be equipped with a headlight, taillight, and brakes.
• Permit or license: Operators must have a motorized bicycle permit or a valid driver's license.
• No sidewalks: A motorized bicycle may not be operated on a sidewalk at any time.
• Ride to the right: Riders must travel as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.

Ride Safe. Ride Smart.

Know the law before you ride. Wear appropriate safety equipment, stay alert, and be aware of vehicles, pedestrians, and other riders.

A Message from the Corcoran Police Department

Following the rules helps keep you, your family, and our community safe.

Know the rules. Wear your helmet. Ride responsibly.