E-Bikes and Electric Dirt Bikes
Colorado law enforcement agencies classify electric dirt bikes (E-Motos) as motorized vehicles rather than bicycles. To legally operate one on public streets, riders must be at least 16 years old, possess a valid driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement, and ensure the vehicle is registered, plated, and insured. These vehicles are prohibited on city sidewalks, parks, and multi-use trails.
Due to the growing number of illegally operated E-Motos—particularly involving unlicensed minors—law enforcement agencies across the state are actively issuing citations and impounding vehicles, though the primary goal is often parental education to prevent tragedies.
Colorado State Classifications
- E-Bikes: Motor output up to 750 watts with a maximum assisted speed of 20–28 mph. No driver’s license is required.
- Low-Power EVs: 750 to 4,476 watts. License required.
To be considered a legal, street-legal e-bike, the vehicle must have a motor of 750 watts or less, functional pedals, and a top assisted speed of 20 to 28 mph. Bikes lacking pedals, possessing throttles that exceed 20 mph, or exceeding 28 mph are legally classified as mopeds or motorcycles and require registration.
How to Identify a Legally Compliant E-Bike
- Pedal vs. Foot-Pegs: Legal e-bikes must have fully functional, operable pedals that allow the bike to be propelled manually. If the bike only has foot-pegs or non-functional pedals attached to a throttle-only motor, it is legally considered a moped or electric motorcycle.
- Manufacturer Label: Federal and local laws, including those in Colorado, require street-legal e-bikes to have a permanently affixed manufacturer’s label. This label should clearly state:
- The e-bike class (Class 1, 2, or 3)
- Top assisted speed
- Motor wattage (maximum 750W)
- Speed Limits and Throttle Assistance
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only (no throttle); assistance cuts off at 20 mph
- Class 2: Equipped with a throttle; assistance cuts off at 20 mph
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only; assistance cuts off at 28 mph and requires a mounted speedometer
- Speed Modifications: If an e-bike has been tampered with or modified to bypass the 20/28 mph cutoff limits, or if it can reach 35+ mph on throttle power alone, it is considered illegal for standard bike lanes and public roads.
Legal Consequences of an Illegal E-Bike
If your e-bike crosses into the electric motorcycle/moped category, you cannot simply register it to fix the issue. These modified or high-powered vehicles lack the necessary VINs, mirrors, brake lights, and turn signals required by the Colorado Department of Revenue. Riding one on public roads or bike paths can result in vehicle impoundment, fines, and citations for operating an unregistered or uninsured motor vehicle.