Electric Bicycles

Electric Bicycle Use on the Paint Creek Trail Policy

Adopted April 17, 2018

 

Background:  On October 30, 2017, Michigan Governor Snyder signed new legislation (HB 4781, HB 4782, and HB 4783) authorizing the use of Electric Bicycles in Michigan.  Now called PA 138, PA 139, and PA 140 of 2017, the new laws affected the Paint Creek Trail and gave Electric Bicycles their own classification.  Electric Bicycles by definition in the new laws are considered “non-motorized”, thus not subject to the Paint Creek Trail’s prohibition of motorized vehicles.  As of January 28, 2018, Class 1 Electric Bicycles could be used on the Paint Creek Trail, unless the Commission decided to “Opt-out” by prohibiting them on the trail.  Class 2 and Class 3 electric bicycles were not be permitted on the Paint Creek Trail unless the Commission “Opted-in”.  The classifications for Electric Bicycles are as follows:

Class 1 Electric Bicycle: an electric bicycle that is equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that disengages or ceases to function when the electric bicycle reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour.

Class 2 Electric Bicycle: an electric bicycle that is equipped with a motor that propels the electric bicycle to a speed of no more than 20 miles per hour, whether the rider is pedaling or not, and that disengages or ceases to function when the brakes are applied.

Class 3 Electric Bicycle: an electric bicycle that is equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that disengages or ceases to function when the electric bicycle reaches a speed of 28 miles per hour.

The Commission decided to hold a public hearing on March 20, 2018, to receive public input and comments, and to decide whether or not to “Opt out” by prohibiting Class 1 Electric Bicycles on the Paint Creek Trail for non-disabled users, and/or “Opt-In” and allow Class 2 and Class 3 Electric Bicycles.  After receiving public comment, the Commission approved the following policy on April 17, 2018:

 

The Paint Creek Trailways Commission will continue to allow Class 1 electric bicycle use for everyone on the Paint Creek Trail, and “Opts-in” to allow Class 2 electric bicycle use for everyone on the Paint Creek Trail. Class 3 electric bicycles are still prohibited for general use.  Use of all three classes would still be allowed under our Other Power Driven Mobility Devices policy for those with mobility related disabilities as defined in the policy. 

 

 

 

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