Colorado House Bill 17-1151 was adopted by the state legislature in 2017 and defines Class 1 and Class 2 models of e-bikes as ‘bicycles’ instead of motorized vehicles. That’s great news for Broomfield!
Electric-assisted bikes (e-bikes) are currently allowed on Broomfield trails, as long as they meet the definition as established for e-bikes, see definition below. E-bikes are held to the same rules and regulations as bicycles. Bicycles are allowed on all Broomfield trails. Broomfield does not allow motorized vehicles on trails.
Allowable E-Bikes Defined
- Class 1 electrical assisted bicycle means an electrical assisted bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of twenty miles per hour.
- Class 2 electrical assisted bicycle means an electrical assisted bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance regardless of whether the rider is pedaling but ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of twenty miles per hour.
(Class 3 e-bikes with a throttle that exceeds twenty miles per hour are not allowed)
In 2017, a survey of residents and local trail users was conducted to gauge opinions on the use of e-bikes on the trail system. Responses were in favor of allowing e-bikes on both concrete and soft-surface trails. Public outreach and education opportunities regarding e-bikes occurred at a variety of community events including Broomfield Days, National Trails Day, Bike to Work Day, and National Night Out, among others.