New proposal would allow e-bikes on DNR trails
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Soon, cyclists may be able to bring their electric bikes to state-owned parks and trails.
A spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources confirmed with News 8 that the agency has issued a proposal to change the current rules and allow certain e-bikes.
The proposal, which was released last month, follows the three different classes of electric bikes, all of which are under 750 watts.
Top speed and function are the key differences. The motor on a Class 3 e-bike will run until it hits 28 miles per hour. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes cut out at 20 mph. For Class 1 e-bikes, motors will only run if the rider also pedals the bike. For Class 2 e-bikes, the motor will run whether the rider pedals or not.
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The proposal would allow Class 1 e-bikes on trails. Class 2 e-bikes would only be allowed for people with a mobility issue who seek out a permit for the bike. Class 3 bikes would remain banned.
In the proposal, the DNR says it is seeing more interest in e-bikes and that they open up more recreation opportunities for people with disabilities.
“Electric bicycles can help with barriers to cycling such as hilly topography and long distances to destinations, as well as grant people with physical limitations new recreation or the option to continue previous recreation activities not allowed due to their mobility impairments. This proposal would provide increased access to our natural resources by those who may not be able to access it otherwise,” the proposal reads.
Tim Novak, the DNR’s state trails coordinator, says the proposal has been presented at multiple public meetings of the Michigan Trails Advisory Council and the Michigan State Park Advisory Council to gather public feedback.
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He says the feedback has been “overwhelming in favor of the policy,” but acknowledged some people have voiced concerned on whether e-bikes will pose more safety hazards to other riders or damage the trails.
The policy will be presented to the Natural Resource Commission on Thursday. It could be signed by the director of the Michigan DNR as early as the agency’s meeting on July 11.
If signed, the rules would go into immediate effect for a one-year trial period.
“If after the one-year period, negative impacts shall be evidenced, the order shall be rescinded. However, if after the one-year period, no negative impacts are evidenced, the order shall remain in effect,” the proposal states.
Novak clarifies that the proposal still allows for local control on state-designated trails that are not owned by the DNR. The proposal would not apply to the portion of the Iron Belle Trail that is also part of the North Country National Scenic Trail, because federal regulations prohibit e-bikes.
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