E-Bikes
E-bikes have become ubiquitous across the country. The extra bit of power helps with hills and longer distances, so more people can get out and enjoy the ride. Like any bike, it's important to ride safely and be considerate of others along the way. Check out the video below to learn about E-bike safety.
E-Bikes in Metroparks
E-bikes are permitted in our state and national parks, as well as trails in the Metroparks where bikes are expressly allowed. Electric dirt bikes or any gas-powered bikes are not permitted. As the popularity of e-bikes has grown, Metroparks rangers stepped up trail patrols this past summer to educate visitors and keep everyone safe.
No speed limits as they can work against public safety. They imply permission to travel at the posted speed which may be too fast in on the mixed-use trials. Instead, Metroparks enforces its rule requiring all cyclists to travel at SAFE speeds for the conditions.
New signs this summer remind trail users of the rules and proper etiquette when using our trails.
- All users should walk or ride on the right side of the trail and give clear, audible notice when passing.
- Walkers and cyclists should be especially cautious when entering a trail.
- Dog walkers must keep their pets on leashes that are no longer than 6 feet.
- We strongly recommend that cyclists of all ages wear helmets.
As the popularity of e-bikes has grown, Metroparks rangers stepped up trail patrols this past summer to educate visitors and keep everyone safe.
New E-Bike Rules Coming to Perrysburg
Perrysburg is rolling out new e-bike regulations aimed at clearing up confusion and improving safety, following a string of e-bike-related crashes across northwest Ohio. City leaders say the rules are designed to clarify where different types of e-bikes can be ridden — while keeping riders, pedestrians, and public spaces safe.
Three classes of e-bikes
The new legislation sorts e-bikes into three classes. Most existing restrictions on faster Class 3 bikes stay in place, including the rule that they cannot be ridden on multi-use paths. Riders of Class 1 and Class 2 bikes will see the biggest changes.
Registration required for multi-use paths
Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes will be allowed on city streets, sidewalks, and multi-use paths — but riding on a multi-use path within the city now requires the bike to be registered. Registered bikes will carry a colored sticker so officers can identify them.
Sidewalk rules depend on age: riders under 15 may continue to ride on sidewalks, while those 15 and older must ride on the roadway or register for the multi-use path. Officials stress that sidewalks should remain safe for people on foot.
Protecting parks and public property
The rules also respond to complaints about damage to parks, lawns, and athletic fields — including one incident where riders used a baseball field's pitching mound as a jump. Officials say the registration system could help police identify riders who damage public property, while still letting residents use their e-bikes responsibly.
Effective date and registration
The legislation takes effect October 15, with a 60-day grace period for residents to register their e-bikes before facing penalties. The exact registration process is still being finalized; the city expects to offer a printable form online that can be dropped off at the police division.
More details in this 13ABC video.