Rear Hub Motors: The Unsung Powerhouses of Modern E-Bikes

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From Subpar to Supercharged

WaterProof | Sensor Swap | Pros-Cons

Not long ago, rear hub motors had a reputation problem. They were seen as entry-level—lacking torque, overheating under stress, and unable to match the smooth, efficient feel of mid-drive systems. But technology doesn’t sit still. Over the past few years, hub motor engineering has leapt forward, turning what was once a compromise into a highly capable and reliable option for most riders.

Today, e-bikes equipped with advanced rear hub motors are closing the performance gap with mid-drives—delivering serious wattage, peak output boosts, thermal management, and rugged dependability that works for 90% of everyday riders and off-road adventurers.

The Evolution of Hub Motors

1. Early Hub Motor Limitations

  • Low continuous power: Early hub motors often ran at 250–500W, which felt underwhelming on trails or hills.
  • Overheating issues: Lack of thermal design led to power fade on long climbs.
  • Basic controllers: Limited ability to handle peak bursts of power.

2. Modern Breakthroughs in Hub Motor Design

  • Higher wattage capacity: Today’s hub motors can comfortably run at 750W nominal (the federal Class 2 and Class 3 legal standard) while peaking at 1,200–1,400W for short bursts.
  • Advanced MOSFET controllers: Smart controllers regulate current draw, delivering smooth ramp-ups and protecting against thermal overload.
  • Improved stator/rotor efficiency: Better copper windings and high-grade magnets increase torque density without adding bulk.
  • Thermal management: Finned casings, higher-temp insulation, and software-based thermal rollbacks keep motors cooler under load.

The Velotric N2X pushes 750W nominal / 1400W peak, giving riders immediate torque for steep hills or fast acceleration—without cooking the motor.

Why Peak Power Matters

Many riders see “750W” on a spec sheet and assume that’s the limit. But what makes modern hub motors exciting is their ability to peak well beyond nominal ratings.

  • Nominal Power (750W): The steady-state power level a motor can handle continuously without overheating.
  • Peak Power (up to 1400W): The short-term maximum output for acceleration, hill climbing, or carrying heavy loads.

This “reserve” power is why hub motors no longer feel anemic. When you push hard—like tackling a steep climb—the motor delivers that surge, then falls back to nominal for efficiency and cooling.

Technical Advantages of Rear Hub Motors

  1. Simplicity and Reliability
    Hub motors bypass the chain and drivetrain. If your chain snaps deep in the woods, the motor alone can still get you back to the trailhead. This is a game-changer for hunters, commuters, or backcountry riders.
  2. Cooler Operation
    With better thermal pathways, modern hub motors shed heat more effectively, even under heavy loads. Internal sensors ensure that if temps rise, power delivery tapers smoothly instead of cooking components.
  3. Low Maintenance
    No extra gears or internal reduction drives—just a sealed, self-contained motor. Fewer moving parts = fewer chances of failure.
  4. Silent Operation
    Advances in winding geometry and magnetic spacing make today’s rear hub motors quieter, with only a faint electric hum.

Practical Benefits for Riders

  • Trail-legal performance: 750W nominal keeps you compliant on most U.S. federal and state-managed trails.
  • Affordable power: Hub-driven bikes typically cost less than mid-drive models, without sacrificing trail-ready performance.
  • Emergency backup: Even with drivetrain failure, your motor alone can power you out.
  • Balanced performance for 90% of riders: Unless you’re tackling extremely technical mountain bike terrain, modern hub motors deliver everything you need.

The Downsides of Rear Hub Motors

No technology is perfect. Riders should be aware of a few trade-offs:

  • Rear-weight bias: A hub motor adds extra weight to the back wheel, which can affect handling and suspension feel.
  • Flat tire hassle: Changing a rear tube means unplugging motor wires—an extra step compared to mid-drives.
  • Less torque scaling: Mid-drives leverage your bike’s gears for ultra-efficient torque. Hub motors rely on raw wattage, which may feel less “natural” on extremely steep technical climbs. But some rear hub ebikes have sensor swap technology that mimics a mid drive bike…to a point (read below)

Pro Tips for Rear Hub Motor Riders

  1. Carry quick-disconnect tools for motor wiring when tackling long backcountry rides.
  2. Check connectors regularly—dust, water, and mud can cause corrosion if not cleaned.
  3. Monitor tire pressure more carefully—extra rear weight makes proper PSI critical for traction and rim protection.
  4. Use regen braking (if supported): Some hub systems allow regenerative braking, extending battery life on long descents.

Rear Hub Motors Are No Longer Second-Class

The old stigma that “real riders use mid-drives” no longer holds up. Today’s rear hub motors—like the 750W/1400W system on the Velotric N2X—are proof that hub technology has matured into a legit powerhouse for e-bikes.

For 90% of riders—commuters, hunters, adventurers, and weekend warriors—a rear hub motor offers the perfect blend of power, reliability, and simplicity. Sure, mid-drives still have their place for hardcore mountain bikers and gear purists. But for most of us, the modern rear hub motor isn’t just good enough—it’s exceptional.

What Riders Used to Say About Older Hub Motors

  • “They’re fine on flat pavement, but as soon as I hit a hill, the motor just bogs down.”
  • “My hub motor overheated halfway up the climb—I had to stop and let it cool off.”
  • “The power delivery is like an on/off switch, no finesse. It just surges.”
  • “Once my chain snapped, I was stuck walking—hub motors just didn’t have the grunt to pull me.”
  • “They’re heavy and make the back of the bike feel sloppy.”
  • “Changing a flat was a nightmare—fishing with that wire connector in the mud.”

What Riders Say About Modern Rear Hub Motors (like 750W/1400W systems)

  • “I expected it to feel sluggish, but the torque hits hard and actually gets me up hills without breaking a sweat.”
  • “I rode 5 miles out into the woods and broke my chain—motor still pulled me back to the truck no problem.”
  • “The controller lets it peak at 1400W and you can really feel that surge on steep climbs.”
  • “This isn’t the noisy hum I remember—it’s whisper quiet.”
  • “I used to think mid-drives were the only serious option, but this hub feels almost the same, just simpler.”
  • “After 20 miles of riding, the motor casing was warm but never too hot—older ones would’ve been frying.”
  • “Swapped a flat on the trail in 10 minutes. Unplugging the cable was way easier than I thought and previous connections.”

Smart Sensors: Cadence vs. Torque Sensing in Rear Hub Motors

One of the biggest leaps in rear hub motor technology isn’t just raw power — it’s the brains of the system. Older hub motors relied almost exclusively on cadence sensors, which detect when the pedals are turning and then apply a fixed level of assistance. While simple and reliable, cadence-only setups often felt “all or nothing” — either too jerky when power kicked in, or too delayed when you needed instant help.

Enter Hybrid Sensor Systems

Modern rear hub motors now feature dual-sensor or swappable sensor technology, allowing the bike to use:

  • Cadence sensing: Measures pedal revolutions. Smooth, steady power delivery that’s great for cruising or casual commuting.
  • Torque sensing: Measures how hard you’re pressing on the pedals. Power scales up or down in real time, giving a much more natural, mid-drive-like feel — especially useful on trails or when climbing.

Many high-end hub systems let riders switch between these modes on the fly, giving you the best of both worlds. For example:

  • On paved paths: Switch to cadence for effortless cruising at consistent speeds.
  • On technical trails: Switch to torque sensing for instant response and precise control.

Real-World Impact for Riders

  • “I thought hub motors were always laggy. With torque sensing, it reacts like it’s reading my legs — way smoother than I expected.”
  • “I use cadence mode when I’m commuting in jeans, but switch to torque when I’m on the singletrack. Feels like two bikes in one.”

Why This Matters for Rear Hub Motors

This sensor tech closes one of the last gaps between rear hubs and mid-drives. Riders get a responsive, intuitive pedaling experience, but without the drivetrain stress that comes from mid-drive systems constantly tugging on the chain and cassette.

Waterproofing & IP Ratings: What Riders Need to Know

Modern rear hub motors are far more weather-resistant than their early counterparts. Most reputable e-bike brands now certify their hub systems to IPX5 or higher, meaning they’re tested to withstand sustained low-pressure water jets and heavy rain. In real-world terms, you can:

  • Ride confidently in downpours, mud, or snow without worrying about water intrusion.
  • Hose off your bike gently to clear off dirt and debris.
  • Trust that the motor casing and sealed connectors are designed for rugged outdoor use.

But Here’s the Catch: What Not to Do

  • Do not pressure wash: High-pressure water can force past seals and damage internal electronics or bearings.
  • Avoid submerging: Hub motors aren’t meant for river crossings or dunking — even if the casing looks solid.
  • Mind the connectors: Waterproof plugs keep out most water, but always check and dry them after wet rides.

Rider Tip

Think of IPX ratings like rain gear: perfect for weather, not for fire hoses. Treat your rear hub motor with the same respect, and it’ll last for thousands of miles.

Waterproofing & IP Ratings: What Riders Need to Know

Oil Springer Suspension vs. Air Suspension on E-Bikes: Which One Is Right for You?

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The Ride Starts Here

When it comes to e-bikes built for adventure, suspension isn’t just about comfort — it’s about control, capability, and getting the most out of every ride. Curious about the differences between oil springer suspension vs air suspension? Choosing between oil springer suspension vs air suspension can dramatically change how your bike feels on the trail or street.

So, which suspension system is right for you?
Let’s break it down.

What Is Oil Springer Suspension?

An oil springer suspension uses a traditional coil spring paired with oil dampening to control shock movement.
You’ll often find this system on rugged, durable e-bikes designed for tough conditions.

Key Components:

  • Coil spring: absorbs impacts.
  • Oil damper: controls rebound speed and prevents harsh bounces.

Advantages of Oil Springer Suspension

  • Toughness: Handles heavy loads and rough trails without fading.
  • Consistency: Performs predictably in all temperatures and conditions.
  • Durability: Fewer air seals mean fewer maintenance headaches.
  • Cost-effective: Usually more affordable upfront than high-end air suspension.

Disadvantages of Oil Springer Suspension

  • Weight: Coil systems are heavier — adding 1-2 lbs more than air systems.
  • Adjustability: Requires mechanical spring changes (or pre-load adjusters) to alter ride feel.
  • Less fine-tuning: Can’t dial in pressure for rider weight with a pump — fixed spring rates.
E-bike riding through rugged trails with oil springer suspension

What Is Air Suspension?

Air suspension uses a pressurized air chamber instead of a coil spring to provide shock absorption.
This is a popular choice for performance e-bikes and high-end off-road models.

Key Components:

  • Air spring chamber: provides adjustable shock absorption.
  • Oil damper: (still present) controls rebound and compression.

Advantages of Air Suspension

  • Lightweight: Shaves crucial pounds off your bike — better for agility and climbing.
  • Adjustable: Fine-tune pressure based on rider weight, cargo load, and riding style with a simple pump.
  • Progressive feel: Air springs naturally stiffen deeper into the stroke — perfect for aggressive riding.
  • Performance: Smoother ride at high speeds over technical terrain.

Disadvantages of Air Suspension

  • Maintenance-sensitive: Requires periodic checks for air pressure and seal integrity.
  • Temperature sensitivity: Air pressure can fluctuate with big temperature swings.
  • Cost: Generally more expensive up front and if repairs are needed.
E-bike riding through rugged trails with oil springer suspension

Maintenance Tips for Each Suspension Type

SuspensionMaintenance FocusTools Needed
Oil SpringerInspect seals, change oil annually or every 100-150 hoursShock pump (for dampers), basic wrench set
Air SuspensionCheck air pressure monthly, replace seals yearly, clean stanchionsHigh-pressure shock pump, seal kit, Allen wrenches

Quick Tip:

  • Springer riders: Listen for squishy, inconsistent rebound — it’s a sign the oil needs service.
  • Air riders: Always check pressure before long rides — losing just 10 PSI can change the whole feel.

Matching Suspension to Your Riding Style

Riding StyleBest Suspension Type
Heavy Trail Rider, Carrying GearOil Springer
Lightweight Rider, Fast Climbs, Aggressive DownhillAir Suspension
All-Season CommutingOil Springer (consistency)
Competitive or Technical Trail RidingAir Suspension (adjustability)

Which Suspension Wins?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
If you value reliability, ruggedness, and simplicity, an oil springer suspension is hard to beat — especially for heavy riders, hunting bikes, and long-range trekking.

If you want peak performance, lightweight handling, and the ability to dial your ride perfectly, an air suspension setup will elevate your ride.

At JoltBike, we match your bike to your lifestyle —
whether you’re bombing backwoods trails or cruising open roads.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Ride?

Come test ride e-bikes with both oil springer and air suspension setups at JoltBike’s 100 acre private trail system!
Our expert team will help you feel the difference — so you can ride further, faster, and smarter.

Understanding E-Bike Throttle Usage and Regulations

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Understanding E-Bike Classes and Throttle Usage

Understanding E-Bike Throttle Usage and Regulations is important for e-bikes, which are generally categorized into three classes:

  • Class 1: Pedal-assist only; the motor provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and stops assisting at 20 mph.
  • Class 2: Throttle-assisted; the motor can propel the bike without pedaling but is limited to 20 mph.
  • Class 3: Pedal-assist only; the motor assists up to 28 mph and must be equipped with a speedometer.

It’s important to note that Class 3 e-bikes typically do not include throttles. These classifications help standardize e-bike regulations, though each state may apply its own unique laws governing their use.

DOWNLOAD THE 50 STATE EBIKE LAW SUMMARY HERE

E-Bike Laws in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, e-bikes are defined as “pedalcycles with electric assist” and must meet the following criteria:

  • Weigh no more than 100 pounds
  • Have operable pedals
  • Be equipped with an electric motor of 750 watts or less
  • Only assist up to speeds of 20 mph

E-bikes meeting these criteria are generally allowed on roadways and trails where traditional bicycles are permitted. However, throttle usage is subject to certain restrictions:

  • On non-motorized trails managed by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), riders must pedal. Throttle-only usage is not allowed.
  • On motorized trails and public-use roads, e-bikes are typically allowed unless specifically prohibited.
  • Pennsylvania State Game Lands do not allow e-bikes, even on roads open to motor vehicles.

It’s crucial for riders to check with local municipalities and land managers, as local rules may be more restrictive.

Throttle as a Safety Feature

For many older adults and riders with physical limitations, a throttle is more than a convenience — it’s a lifeline. The ability to start from a stop or accelerate quickly without pedaling can:

  • Prevent tipping or falling
  • Reduce strain on joints
  • Help riders handle steep inclines
  • Provide a backup in emergencies

This function allows more people — especially those who may have stopped riding years ago — to return to trails with confidence and control.

Understanding E-Bike Classes and Throttle Usage

State-by-State Variations

Throttle laws and e-bike classifications vary widely across the U.S. Here are a few examples:

  • California: Uses the three-class system and permits Class 2 (throttle) e-bikes on most bike paths, though local rules may vary.
  • New York: Follows the three-class system, but cities like New York have additional restrictions.
  • Oregon: Does not allow throttles on Class 3 e-bikes and limits motors to 750 watts.

Riders should always verify local laws before heading out — especially when riding across state lines or on managed lands.

While throttles on e-bikes can raise regulatory questions, they also serve a meaningful purpose — especially for aging riders and those with mobility challenges. In Pennsylvania, Class 2 throttle-equipped bikes are legal in many areas, but riders should stay informed and respect local trail rules.

E-bikes open new doors — just be sure to know where those doors are allowed to open.

Electric bicycle (e-bike) laws in the United States vary significantly by state, encompassing definitions, classifications, operational restrictions, and equipment requirements. Understanding these regulations is crucial for e-bike riders to ensure compliance and safe operation. Below is an overview of e-bike laws across various states:​

E-Bike Laws by State (A–K)

You can download the whole 50 state list HERE

Alabama

  • Definition: E-bikes are classified as motor-driven cycles.
  • Requirements: Class M driver’s license required; motorcycle helmet required.
  • Age Restriction: Minimum age 14.

Alaska

  • Definition: Considered motor-driven cycles.
  • Requirements: M-class endorsement on driver’s license required.
  • Age Restriction: Minimum age 14.

Arizona

  • Definition: Termed motorized electric bicycles or tricycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; allowed on roadways and bike lanes unless locally prohibited.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Arkansas

  • Definition: Recognized as electric bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets mandatory for Class 3 riders under 21.
  • Age Restriction: Minimum age 16 for Class 3.

California

  • Definition: Categorized into three classes:
    • Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph.
    • Class 2: Throttle-assisted, up to 20 mph.
    • Class 3: Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph with speedometer.
  • Requirements: Class 3 requires helmets; may be restricted on some bike paths by local ordinance.

Colorado

  • Definition: Electrical assisted bicycles; follows three-class system.
  • Requirements: No license required; Class 3 restricted from bike paths unless approved locally.

Connecticut

  • Definition: Bicycles with helper motors.
  • Requirements: Operators must be at least 16; helmets required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Delaware

  • Definition: Recognized as bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets required for riders under 16.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Florida

  • Definition: Termed electric-assist bicycles.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 16; no license required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Georgia

  • Definition: Defined as electric bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets required for riders under 16.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Hawaii

  • Definition: Classified as mopeds.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 15; no license required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 30 mph.

Idaho

  • Definition: Termed motorized electric bicycles.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 16; Class D driver’s license required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 30 mph.

Illinois

  • Definition: Categorized as low-speed electric bicycles; follows three-class system.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets required for Class 3 riders under 16.
  • Age Restriction: Minimum age 16 for Class 3.

Indiana

  • Definition: Classified as motorized bicycles.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 15; ID card required.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 25 mph.

Iowa

  • Definition: Recognized as electric bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license or age restrictions.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Kansas

  • Definition: Defined as electric-assisted bicycles.
  • Requirements: No license required; helmets required under age 18.
  • Speed Limit: Assistance ceases at 20 mph.

Kentucky

  • Definition: Classified as motorized bicycles.
  • Requirements: Minimum age 16; driver’s license required; helmets required under age 18.

E-Bike Prices in 2025: Are Tariffs About to Change the Game?

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The U.S. electric bike (e-bike) market is experiencing significant changes due to newly imposed tariffs on imports, particularly from China. These tariffs are expected to influence e-bike prices, market dynamics, and consumer behavior in the coming months. This article explores how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S., the anticipated effects of these tariffs, current pricing trends, and provides key market statistics to offer a comprehensive overview of the evolving e-bike landscape in the United States.​

Understanding the New Tariffs

In early 2025, the U.S. administration announced a 10% tariff on imports from China, including e-bikes and related components. This policy aims to address trade imbalances but has raised concerns within the e-bike industry about potential price increases and market disruptions. Manufacturers and retailers now face decisions on whether to absorb these additional costs or pass them on to consumers. Understanding how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S. is crucial for market stakeholders.

Impact on E-Bike Prices

The introduction of these tariffs is likely to lead to higher retail prices for e-bikes in the U.S. Given that a significant portion of e-bikes sold in the country are imported from China, the added costs from tariffs may be transferred to consumers. This situation mirrors previous instances where tariffs resulted in increased prices for imported goods, showing how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S.​

Current Pricing Trends

The e-bike market has seen a shift towards more affordable models to cater to a broader consumer base. High-end e-bikes can still command prices upwards of $3,000, but there is a growing presence of budget-friendly options in the $1,200–$2,000 range. This trend indicates an effort to make e-bikes accessible to a wider audience and to counteract how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S., despite potential cost increases due to tariffs.

Market Statistics and Growth

The U.S. e-bike market has been on an upward trajectory:​

  • Market Value: Valued at approximately $1.04 billion in 2024, with projections estimating growth to $2.51 billion by 2033, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.78%. This growth is occurring despite how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S. ​
  • Unit Sales: Around 500,000 e-bikes were sold in 2022, with expectations of surpassing 700,000 units annually by 2025. ​
  • Market Share: E-bikes accounted for 28% of the U.S. bicycle market, indicating a significant presence and growing consumer interest. ​

Consumer Considerations

With the anticipated price increases due to tariffs, consumers may consider:

  • Purchasing Timing: Buying e-bikes before price hikes take effect, as a strategy considering how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S.
  • Exploring Alternatives: Considering brands or models not affected by tariffs.​
  • Secondhand Market: Looking into used e-bikes as a cost-effective option.​

The imposition of new tariffs on e-bike imports is poised to impact prices and market dynamics in the U.S. While the market has shown resilience and growth, consumers and industry stakeholders must navigate these changes strategically. Staying informed about market trends and exploring various purchasing options can help mitigate the financial impact of these tariffs. It’s clear how new tariffs are influencing electric bike prices in the U.S., and these insights are crucial for making informed decisions in the evolving market landscape.

E-Bike Price Comparison: 2024 vs. 2025 After Tariffs

Here’s an updated comparison of e-bike prices from various companies between 2024 and 2025, illustrating the impact of tariffs on pricing. I’ve included a model from Velotric as requested:

Brand & Model2024 Price2025 PricePrice IncreaseNotes
Lectric XP Lite 2.0$799$999$200 (25%)Budget-friendly folding e-bike; price increased due to tariffs.
Aventon Level 3 Commuter$1,799$2,249$450 (25%)Popular commuter e-bike; price hike reflects increased import duties.
Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus$1,999$2,499$500 (25%)Fat tire commuter e-bike; tariff impact on pricing.
Vvolt Alpha$1,399$1,749$350 (25%)Entry-level e-bike; price adjusted due to new tariffs.
Wallke H9 AWD$1,749$2,186$437 (25%)Folding e-bike with dual motors; price increase following tariff implementation.
Velotric Discover 1$1,299$1,624$325 (25%)Versatile city e-bike; price adjusted due to tariff reinstatement.

National Park Service Announces Policy for Electric Bicycle Use in National Parks

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Date: August 30, 2019
Contact: NewsMedia@nps.gov
Credit: https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1207/ebikepolicy.htm

Use of e-bikes will increase access to recreational opportunities in parks

WASHINGTON – On August 30, the National Park Service announced a new electric bicycle (e-bike) policy for national parks, expanding recreational opportunities and accessibility. The policy supports Secretary’s Order 3376, signed by U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt on August 29, that directs Department of the Interior (DOI) bureaus to create a clear and consistent e-bike policy on all federal lands managed by the Department. The policy also supports Secretary’s Order 3366 to increase recreational opportunities on public lands.

A majority of states have adopted e-bike policies, most following model legislation that allows for the 3 classes of e-bikes to have access to bicycle trails. The NPS e-bike policy seeks to provide some consistency with the state rules applying where park units are located.

“As more Americans are using e-bikes to enjoy the great outdoors, national parks should be responsive to visitors’ interest in using this new technology wherever it is safe and appropriate to do so,” said National Park Service Deputy Director P. Daniel Smith. “They make bicycle travel easier and more efficient, and they provide an option for people who want to ride a bicycle but might not otherwise do so because of physical fitness, age, disability, or convenience, especially at high altitudes or in hilly or strenuous terrain.”

This new policy will enable visitors to use e-bikes, low-speed electric bicycles with power assistance, in the same manner as traditional bicycles, allowing them on park roads, paved or hardened trails, areas designated for off-road motor vehicle use and administrative roads where traditional bikes are allowed. The operator of an e-bike may only use the motor to assist pedal propulsion. The motor may not be used to propel an e-bike without the rider also pedaling, except in locations open to public motor vehicle traffic. 

Similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes are not allowed in designated wilderness areas. Park superintendents will retain the right to limit, restrict, or impose conditions of bicycle use and e-bike use in order to ensure visitor safety and resource protection. Over the coming month, superintendents will work with their local communities, staff and partners to determine best practices and guidance for e-bike use in their parks. Visitors should check the website of the park they plan to visit for details about where e-bikes are permitted and any other considerations specific to that park.

E-bikes make bicycle travel easier and more efficient, because they allow bicyclists to travel farther with less effort. When used as an alternative to gasoline- or diesel-powered modes of transportation, e-bikes can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel consumption, improve air quality, and support active modes of transportation for park staff and visitors. Similar to traditional bicycles, e-bikes can decrease traffic congestion, reduce the demand for vehicle parking spaces, and increase the number and visibility of cyclists on the road. 

A copy of the National Park Service’s new e-bike policy is available online.

Safety information and Frequently Asked Questions are on the Electric Bicycles (e-bikes) in National Parks website. 

www.nps.gov

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 419 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.