Have you recently purchased an electric bike and wondered whether you could ride it on the sidewalk? Hey, we get it. You want to ride your bike but are afraid that you might break the law.
This article takes a clear and reliable approach to answering your question “Can you ride E Bikes on sidewalks?” and mentions a few tips and other alternative options you could use to take your bike to work, the gym, or your favorite cafe. So, let’s get started!
Is It Okay to e-bikes-on-sidewalks?
In short, yes, a healthy number of states in the United States allow cyclists to ride their bicycles on sidewalks.
However, whether or not you’re allowed to ride your E-Bike on sidewalks depends on where you’re from. Some parts of the U.S. deem restricting the rising popularity of E-Bikes to the road a legal obligation and a necessary safety measure, while other states are considerably dismissive about it.
Below is a list of states that allow and those that prohibit the use of bikes on sidewalks.
States That Allow People to Ride An E-Bike on a Sidewalk
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Kentucky
- Maryland
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- North Carolina
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Virginia
The states on this list have allowed people to ride an E-Bike on the sidewalk in some conditions.
States like Alabama, Alaska, New Mexico, Louisiana, and Massachusetts require cyclists to apply for E-Bike registration and have a license made which proves that they’re permitted to use the sidewalk.
Various states also have minimum ages of 14, 15, and 16, while others necessitate riders to wear helmets at all times. You may even need to ride slower than 20 mph and meet the speed limit.
To determine where your state stands on riding E-bikes on sidewalks, check with your local authorities or municipality to avoid misinformation and better understand the laws specific to your state.
States That DON’T Allow Riders to Ride an Ebike on a Sidewalk
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Louisiana
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Utah
- Vermont
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
On the flip side, you must remember that you are NOT permitted to ride your electric bikes on sidewalks in most states. The places on this list treat e-bikes more like traditional motor vehicles.
Much like regular car or truck drivers, bike riders may also need to stick to the road. Some of these states even have bike lanes. These are parts of the road specifically designated for bikes.
Just understand one thing: the reason why so many states declare that E-Bikes cannot be ridden on sidewalks is to ensure the safety of both cyclists and pedestrians. The least we, as law-abiding citizens, can do is adhere to these rules.
Besides, it’s for the well-being of society and each and every one of our households anyway, right?
Pros of Riding E-Bikes on Sidewalks
Now that we’ve discussed more about the states that have enforced laws governing bike riding on sidewalks, let’s talk more about the benefits of riding EBikes on pavements.
1. Safety Away from Traffic
Riding a bike on a sidewalk is way safer than riding amidst cars and other large motor vehicles. Traffic can be unpredictable and inherently dangerous for cyclists. By being on the sidewalk, you’re less likely to encounter cars and trucks, which reduces the risk of accidents.
2. Enjoy Local Spots
Apart from being able to ride safely and legally (depending on your state), using the pavement enables you to conveniently stop at a local shop or area as you please.
So if you happen to lay your eyes on a new cafe, park, or bakery, don’t forget to stop by, park your bike in a safe spot, and treat yourself to a good time.
3. No More Traffic Jam
This is a factor that can benefit the entire society as a whole. By using an electric cycle, you’re doing your own part by freeing up some space for one car on the road.
This reduces the number of those dreaded traffic jams that tend to develop in many cities that are on the more populous side. You can glide past long lines of cars with ease and save the amount of time you would’ve otherwise spent on waiting for the traffic to clear out.
Now, you’ll be able to reach an important job interview or party on time without having to stress about being stuck in traffic.
4. Eco-Friendly Travel
Riding an electric bike on the sidewalk is a brilliant first step towards living sustainably. E-bikes produce zero emissions. This means you won’t be producing any gasses that could pollute the air and be catalyze the destruction of the Ozone layer.
Plus, they require less energy to charge compared to the amount of fuel a car would need. Besides, it could make you feel better about yourself and your endeavors to make the world a much cleaner place.
Remember to always check your local laws and regulations about riding electric bikes on sidewalks, as they can vary from place to place. Happy and safe riding!
Cons of Riding Electric Bicycles on Sidewalks
However, despite the many advantages that riding electric bikes on the sidewalk can bring, cyclists must consider the other side of the coin, too. Below are some of the limitations and adverse effects of riding a bicycle on a sidewalk
E-Bikes Aren’t Accepted by Every State
As we’ve already discussed, riding on a sidewalk can be illegal. Not complying with this law can make you liable to pay a fine or have your record tainted by a misdemeanor charge. This is why it’s essential to do what’s required to stay on the good side of the law.
Ebikes Are a Risky Mode of Transportation
Electric bikes are much more powerful than regular, non-assisted ones. Due to this, they have the proclivity to zoom past people and, in turn, scare them or cause a collision.
This is because many people use the sidewalks of streets, including the elderly, office goers, homeless people, kids, teens with scooters and skateboards, and even stray cats and dogs.
Tips to Ride an Electric Bike on the Sidewalk
Regardless of where you’re living, riding an E-Bike may require you to make substantial safety considerations. Below are some tips that you should keep in mind when using your bike.
- Riders must yield the right of way to pedestrians. So respect people’s space and alert pedestrians by giving them a subtle warning via a simple hand gesture so that they know you’re coming through.
- If you’re on the road, you must obey traffic laws and ride with care and patience.
- You, as a responsible citizen, must use a helmet when you’re using the road to get around. This helps ensure your safety as well as that of the drivers you’re sharing the road with.
- Be courteous to pedestrians and fellow bike riders alike. A routinely nod or smile to greet those you see on a daily basis can go a long way.
- If you feel a little rusty when riding your bike, consider taking classes. This will move you in the right direction towards helping you ride around in a safer way for both yourself and your peers.
- Make sure to use an appropriate bicycle whilst keeping in mind the speed limit in your area. A smaller bike with a higher torque at low speeds can be an exceptional choice for street riding.
- Avoid the rain. E-bikes are not waterproof. Riding this bike in the rain can harm you and others around you.
Let’s Wrap It Up!
So, here’s everything you need to know about legally riding on the sidewalk. Remember, whether or not you’re allowed to ride your bike on a pavement depends on your location.
Also, take heed of the tips I’ve provided to ensure a fun and safe cycling journey devoid of any freak accidents or legal issues. Now, you’re all set to take your bike into the world and introduce it to the wonders that lie within.
