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If you found an open road or trail in Woodbury this summer, it’s likely you ran into an e-bike.
With any luck, you didn’t crash into the electric bike, and the rider avoided hitting you. But with well over 20,000 injuries annually on these non-licensed vehicles, it’s certainly a possibility.
There are no precise figures about the number of e-bikes active in the state, but Minnesotans bought more than 34,000 of the pedal-assist bikes last year alone. Since many of them ended up in Woodbury, it is worth learning more about them and the laws and rules that pertain to their operations.
Motors can run up to 750 Watts and go 25-50 miles on a charge. All e-bikes have operational pedals with a powered assist. Class I and II go up to 20 mph while Class III can reach a speed of 28 mph. After market alterations and larger power sources for additional speed are not permitted in Minnesota.
E-bike riders are required to observe the same laws and rules as other bicycle riders as well as these additional restrictions:
Nobody under 15 years of age can operate an e-bike.
Riders under 18 must wear a helmet.
Class 1 and 2 e-bikes and personal assistive mobility devices are allowed on City of Woodbury trails
E-scooters, e-motos, motorized bicycles, golf carts and Class 3 e-bikes are not permitted on City of Woodbury trails
Lights should be used after dusk.
Riders on the shoulder of a road have the same rights and duties as other drivers.
Riders on sidewalks, paths, and trails have the same rights and duties as pedestrians.
Riders on sidewalks, paths, and trails should alert pedestrians of their approach by voice or bell and pass on the left.
There are other safety concerns to be aware of with e-bikes for the protection of riders and others.
Woodbury Public Safety staff shared this guidance:
Helmets should be carefully chosen. Standard bicycle helmets are designed to protect the wearer in crashes under 20 mph, so e-bike riders are safer when wearing helmets designed specifically for their vehicles.
The lithium ion batteries that power e-bikes can explode and cause significant fires. Prevention includes following the manufacturer’s directions and avoiding aftermarket alterations, as well as black market batteries and chargers. Chargers should be kept away from flammable materials.