The U.S. opens access to eMTB riders

The U.S government finally recognises eMTBs as non-motorised vehicles with the Secretary of the Interior opening up the Nation Parks to all cyclists, including eMTBers.

U.S. eMTB access has been a controversial topic since pedal-assisted bikes first came onto the scene. In a statement released by the Secretary of the Interior, legislation surrounding eMTBs has been simplified, finally classifying e-bikes as ‘non-motorised vehicles’. This now gives eMTBs the same rights and access as regular bikes within the Parks managed by the Department of the Interior.

The uncertainty concerning the legal definition of eMTBs has long restricted the growth and development of the sport within the U.S as riders struggled to embrace a cycle sport with such limitations on where they could ride.
By legalising the use of e-bikes, the Department of the Interior hopes to increase the recreational opportunities for everyone, particularly those with physical limitations. It recognises that e-bikes enable a greater number of people to enjoy the benefits of cycling, ‘especially in more challenging environments, such as high altitudes or hilly terrain’.

The act classifies e-bikes with an electric motor of fewer than 750 watts, as non-motorised vehicles, whether throttle or pedal-assisted up to a maximum speed of 20 mph (32 kph) or solely pedal-assisted up to 28 mph (45 kph). All e-bikes will now have the same rights and restrictions as non-assisted bikes.

Although the statement does not apply to land managed by The Department of Agriculture, who run the U.S. Forestry Service, will it only be a matter of time before this precedent is used to make the U.S. a 100% eMTB friendly country?

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Words: Thomas Corfield Photos: Robin Schmitt