E-Bike Rules

Electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric scooters (e-scooters) are becoming increasingly popular as convenient, affordable, and environmentally friendly ways to travel. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or enjoying a recreational ride, these devices offer a fun and efficient alternative to traditional transportation. As more people choose e-bikes and e-scooters, it is important to understand the laws that govern their use, where they can be ridden, and how to safely share roads, bike lanes, and trails with others. Knowing the rules and practicing safe riding habits helps ensure a positive experience for everyone.

E-Scooter Classifications (MN Statute 169.011.46): 

  • Powered by either an electric motor or a gas engine.
  • May be designed for standing or seated operation. 
  • Equipped with handlebars for steering control. 
  • Features two wheels, each 12 inches or smaller in diameter.
  • Maximum capable speed of 15 mph. 

 

E-Scooter Rules (MN Statute 169.225): 

  • Riders must be 12 years of age or older to operate an e-scooter. 
  • Helmet use is required for riders under 18 years of age. 
  • E-scooters may only be operated on park trails and city streets. 

E-Bike Classifications (MN Statute 169.011.27): 

  • Has two or three wheels. 
  • Equipped with functional pedals.
  • Contains an electric motor with a maximum output of 750 watts or less.
  • Maximum capable speed of 28mph. 

 

E-Bike Rules (City of Hastings Ordinance 70.10): 

  • Riders must be 15 years of age or older. 
  • May be operated on park trails at a maximum speed of 15 mph. 
  • May be ridden on city streets while obeying all posted speed limits. 
  • Must follow all traffic laws applicable to bicyclists. 
  • Riders should stay as close as safely possible to the right-hand side of the roadway. 
  • Riding on sidewalks is not permitted. 
  • Helmet use is strongly recommended for safety. 
  • Carrying more than one passenger on an electric bike is illegal. 
  • Riders must always yield to pedestrians. 
  • Proper lighting is required when riding at night. 

Moto-Bike Classifications (MN Statute 169.011.45): 

  • Maximum speed of 30 mph. 
  • Equipped with two tandem wheels. 
  • Powered by a gas engine (50cc or less) or an electric motor. 
  • Commonly classified as a moped.
  • Maximum capable speed of 30 mph. 

 

Moto-Bike Rules (MN Statute 169.223): 

  • Riders must be at least 15 years old and possess a valid permit or be 16 years of age or older with a valid driver’s license. 
  • Current vehicle registration and insurance are required for operation. 
  • Riders under 18 years of age must wear a helmet. 
  • Vehicles may only be operated on city streets and must comply with all applicable traffic laws and regulations. 

Moto-Bike Classifications (Defaults to definition of a motorcycle; MN Statute 169.011.44):  

  • Equipped with an electric motor. 
  • Has two or three wheels. 
  • Does not have pedals.
  • E-Bike/Moto-Bikes that have been modified from manufactured capabilities. 

 

Moto-Bike Rules (MN Statute 169.974): 

  • Riders must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement. 
  • Riders under 18 years of age are required to wear a helmet. 
  • Proof of current vehicle registration and insurance must be carried at all times. 
  • Motorcycles may only be operated on city streets and must comply with posted speed limits and all applicable motorcycle laws and regulations. 

Sidewalk parking shall be limited to areas outside the pedestrian path of travel.  

E-Bikes must not be parked in any location or manner that will impede normal and reasonable pedestrian traffic or access to:

  • Pedestrian Ramps
  • Building or Property Entrances
  • Driveways
  • Loading Zones
  • Disability Parking and Transfer Zones
  • Transit Stops
  • Crosswalks
  • Parklets
  • Street or Sidewalk Cafés
  • Other Street Furnishings (benches, parking meters, etc.)
  • Underground Utility, Sewer or Water Facilities 
  • E-Bikes should not be parked in the street, in a manner that obstructs the sightlines of any intersection or in any place where they could pose a safety hazard.

Police

Contact Us

Main Phone: 651-480-2300

Emergency: Call or Text 911

24-Hour Non-Emergency Phone: 651-322-2323

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