09/08/2026
Laws and Regulation for E-Bikes, Motorized Bikes, E-Motorcycles, and Motorized Foot Scooters
E-Bikes (First Picture)
In Minnesota, e-bikes are generally permitted wherever traditional bicycles are allowed, including on most trails and sidewalks, with some restrictions based on class and local regulations; MN State Statute 169.011. The City of East Grand Forks lists local regulations/restrictions regarding e-bikes in the Definitions section of the Greenway Ordinance – Ordinance No. 30, 4th Series. E-bikes are defined as having two or three wheels, a seat, fully operable pedals, and an electric motor of 750 watts or less. Riders must be at least 15 years old, and helmets are required for those under 18. No insurance is required to operate these bikes.
Classes of E-bikes; Minnesota recognizes three classes of e-bikes:
Class 1: Pedal-assist, motor only provides assistance up to 20 mph.
Class 2: Throttle-assist, motor can propel the bike without pedaling up to 20 mph.
Class 3: Pedal-assist, motor provides assistance up to 28 mph.
Safety - Riders should be aware of and yield to pedestrians and slower trail users. Audible signals (bells or voice) should be used when passing. Helmets are required for riders under 18. E-bikes cannot be modified to bypass speed limits.
Greenway – E-Bikes that meet the listed restrictions are allowed on the bike paths in the Greenway.
Motorized Bikes (2nd Picture)
Motorized Bikes which have no pedals require a driver's license or motorized bike permit to operate. They have a top operating speed of 30mph. They are not allowed to operate on trails or sidewalks, and they must be registered to be operated on streets; MN State Statute 169.223. If registered as a motorcycle to operate on the streets requires liability insurance.
Greenway – Motorized Bike as described in this statute are NOT allowed to be operated in the Greenway.
E-Motorcycles/Dirt Bikes (3rd Picture)
E-Motorcycles/Dirt bikes are not specifically defined in State Law. They look like a more traditional motocross type of motorcycle/dirt bikes. They have no bike pedals, and they are capable of speeds of more than 30mph. They do not fit any specific vehicle definition in State Statutes therefore they default to being considered a motorcycle. They are not allowed on sidewalks, walking/bike trails, or in City streets. These are only allowed to be operated on private property, and thus, are NOT allowed to be operated in the Greenway.
Motorized Foot Scooters (4th Picture)
No person under 12 years may operate a motorized foot scooter. No person may operate a motorized foot scooter upon a sidewalk, except when necessary to enter or leave adjacent property. No person under the age of 18 may operate a motorized foot scooter without wearing a helmet. If operated on a roadway the person shall ride as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway. A person may operate a motorized foot scooter on a bicycle path, bicycle lane, or bicycle trail if not prohibited by the local governing body having jurisdiction over the path. See City of East Grand Forks Ordinance No. 38, 4th Series for more information.
Greenway - Motorized Foot Scooters are allowed to be operated on bike paths in the Greenway within the restrictions stated in this ordinance. See less
