E-Bikes in Broomfield

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.
Soft Surface
Concrete Surface
On December 7, 2017, the Broomfield Open Space and Trails Advisory Committee (OSTAC) reviewed this information and supported the use of Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on Broomfield's trails. Broomfield open space staff will continue to provide education and information to the public regarding e-bikes and trail use etiquette at upcoming Open Space and Trails events. Public comments received by Broomfield open space staff this year will be evaluated in early 2019 to determine if any additional adjustments or regulations are appropriate. 

For more information or to comment on this topic, please contact Pete Dunlaevy at 303-438-6216, or pdunlaevy@broomfield.org.

View additional information about Broomfield's trails here