e-Bikes

What are e-Bikes?

Electric bicycles, or e-Bikes, provide riders with a speed boost through an electric motor of 750 watts or less. Support from these motors helps riders bike greater distances, up steeper inclines, and with heavier loads–making it easier for everyone to get around, especially people who may need more support due to age, ability level, and more.

Types of e-Bikes

e-Bikes are generally classified based on their maximum speed and how they give you power. Depending on the type of e-Bike you use, different rules apply. Other electric modes of transportation, like low power scooters and electric motorcycles, have their own rules and restrictions.

e-Bike Rules and Safety

e-Bikes are growing quickly in popularity, especially among kids and teens–which means safety concerns are on the rise. To ensure safety, it is important to follow rules of the road as they apply to each type of e-Bike. Learn more:

• e-Bike Safety Flier – In English
• e-Bike Safety Flier – In Spanish/En Español
• e-Bike Safety Flier – Bilingual

For more information, safety tips, and an e-Bike buyer’s guide, please visit the Community Cycles website.

e-Bikes on Trails

In Boulder County, class 1 and 2 e-Bikes are allowed on designated regional and Open Space trails in the plains. All e-Bikes are prohibited on foothills and mountain trails. Visit Boulder County’s Open Space map for more details on where you can take your e-Bike, including details on e-Bike permissions for people with mobility disabilities.

As you consider the purchase of an e-Bike, note that class 3 e-Bikes are only allowed on roads and in bike lanes and must be operated only by people age 16 or older. For more information, please visit the Colorado State Assembly’s page on statewide e-Bike laws.

Discounts and Incentives

As of April 1, 2024, all Colorado residents can receive a $450 discount towards the purchase of an e-Bike through the Colorado Energy Office (CEO). Residents who meet the following criteria will automatically receive the discount, with a limit of one purchase per calendar year:

• Purchase an eligible e-Bike at a participating e-Bike retailer. Participating retailers will verify your proof of address and apply the discount at the time of your e-Bike purchase.
• Provide proof of a physical Colorado address at the time of purchase. If you are unhoused in Colorado, a dated letter from a government agency or non-profit organization you are receiving services from may be accepted in place of proof of address.
• Pay full sales tax on the e-bike, even if the discount exceeds the e-Bike’s price.

For more information on this program, including e-Bike model eligibility and a list of acceptable proof of address documents, visit the CEO website.