The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department is working to adopt a policy for the use of electrical assisted bicycles (“e-bikes”) across the park system. E-bikes and all other forms of motorized use* are prohibited on many regional park properties and open spaces. However, as the popularity of e-bikes continues to grow, PRCS receives more and more requests to allow e-bikes in more places.
The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services department recommends an e-bike policy which:
- allows Class 1 e-bikes on all trails within our system (including regional park and open space trails
- allows Class 1 and 2 e-bikes on urban/regional trails
The Colorado Springs Parks Advisory Board voted to support changes to City Code that recommends to City Council the definition of class 1, class 2 and class 3 electric-assisted bicycles as non-motorized use.
The proposed staff e-bike policy and associated ordinance along with the recommendation by the Colorado Springs Parks Advisory Board will now proceed to City Council for discussion and a final decision.
Survey
From June to August 2024, we conducted a community survey to gather valuable feedback from residents. We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed their insights to help guide the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Department in making informed decisions for the benefit of all.
To view a summary of the 2024 E-Bike Survey results, click below:
2024 E-Bike Survey Results Summary
Our team is actively reviewing the feedback and comments to better understand the community’s priorities. Updates will be provided to the Trails, Open Space and Parks Programs (TOPS) Working Committee and Parks Advisory Board as the process continues. Both meetings are open to the public to participate in person or online.
What is an e-bike?
According to state statute and city code an electrical assisted bicycle is “a vehicle having two or three wheels, fully operable pedals, and an electric motor not exceeding seven hundred fifty watts of power.”
Three types of e-bikes
Class I e-bike
- A Class I e-bike provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to assist the rider when the bicycle reaches a speed of twenty miles per hour.
Class II e-bike
- A Class II e-bike 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 III e-bike
- A Class III e-bike provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of twenty-eight miles per hour.
Stay informed
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