The Steamboat Springs Police Department is clarifying the difference between e-bikes and electric motorcycles/dirt bikes after observing a noticeable rise in the use of the latter in recent incidents involving unsafe behavior and damage to city parks.
“We take these incidents seriously and violating the law on an electric motorcycle will result in consequences including possible criminal charges and vehicle impoundment. More importantly, fleeing from police, in any vehicle, is a crime and can have unintended consequences such as serious collisions resulting in life-changing injuries. It won’t be tolerated.” – Police Chief Mark Beckett.
Parents, guardians, and riders are urged to understand the difference between the standard e-bike and electric motorcycles/dirt bikes to ensure that they’re used legally and responsibly. E-bikes are bicycles with an integrated electric motor to assist with pedaling. They have pedals, not pegs, and are defined by Colorado statue as Class 1, 2, or 3.
In Steamboat Springs, only Class 1 or 2 can be operated on trails or sidewalks. Anyone who is 15 or younger is legally required to wear a helmet while operating or riding as a passenger on any e-bike or standard bicycle, and the maximum speed limit on trails is between 10 to 15mph.
Electric motorcycles or electric dirt bikes can only be operated on roadways or highways with a valid motorcycle endorsed drivers’ license, state registration and plates, and insurance. They cannot be ridden on streets or highways across Colorado without being registered with the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles.
