As e-Bikes gain popularity, Boulder County residents may have questions on different technology options and bike classes, rules regarding where you can and can’t go on an e-Bike, and how to get financial assistance to purchase an e-Bike.
This page serves as a starting point for Boulder County residents to gain an understanding of e-Bike technology, trail regulations, and available discount programs.
What are e-bikes?
Electric bicycles, or e-Bikes, provide riders with a speed boost through an electric motor, making it possible to bike greater distances and up steeper inclines, get to your destinations quickly without getting sweaty, and more! They are also more accessible to people of different ages and abilities than manual bikes. E-Cargo Bikes are a great option to carry kids to school or bring groceries home. Read more about why e-Bikes might be a good fit for you and your family from the State of Colorado, here.
Types of e-Bikes
e-Bikes are classified based on their maximum speed and how they give you power:
- Class 1: 20 mph maximum speed, power from electric motor provided to the rider when pedaling.
- Class 2: 20 mph maximum speed, power from electric motor provided to the rider when pedaling or activated by a throttle.
- Class 3: 28 mph maximum speed, power from electric motor provided to the rider when pedaling; motor capacity is capped at 750 watts.
Several sub-types of e-Bikes can help people with mobility-limiting disabilities, or who are carrying additional materials or passengers:
- Adaptive e-Bike: designed for people with disabilities; typically have 3 or 4 wheels and are set lower to the ground with a basket style seat.
- e-Cargo Bike: have extended frames, are designed to carry passengers or extra weight/cargo, and have attachment points for additional racks, baskets, or seats.
For general information, safety tips, and an e-Bike buyer’s guide, please visit the Community Cycles website. Community Cycles is a Boulder-based nonprofit organization that expands bicycle ridership through access, education, and advocacy.
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, please consider 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.
2023 e-Bike Discounts and Incentives
This year, Boulder County residents may be eligible for two different e-Bike discount programs based on income and location: Through the Colorado Energy Office and through the City of Boulder.
Note: These two discounts are not stackable; residents who are eligible for both pools can only redeem one of the discounts.
Both programs are described in more detail below, including eligibility criteria, application details, and where to go for more information.
