Electric bicycles (e-bikes) are becoming more common on North Dakota roads, trails and neighborhood streets. While they may look like traditional bicycles, e-bikes can travel faster, weigh more and accelerate more quickly, making them different to ride.
Whether you’re purchasing an e-bike for yourself or your child, taking a few simple precautions can help prevent crashes and injuries.
An e-bike is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that assists the rider while pedaling or, on some models, through a throttle. North Dakota recognizes three classes of e-bikes.
| Class | Description | Maximum Assisted Speed |
| Class 1 | Pedal-assist only | 20 mph |
| Class 2 | Throttle-assisted | 20 mph |
| Class 3 | Pedal-assist only | 28 mph |
North Dakota law establishes specific requirements for operating an e-bike.
Before you ride:
Know what class of e-bike you are riding.
Follow the same traffic laws that apply to bicyclists.
Riders under 18 operating a Class 3 e-bike must wear a helmet.
E-bikes do not require a driver’s license, registration or insurance.
Local communities may have different rules regarding where e-bikes are allowed, including trails and shared-use paths. Always check local regulations before riding.
Everyone has a role in e-bike safety.
Ride responsibly by:
Wearing a properly fitted helmet on every ride.
Obeying traffic signs and signals.
Riding in the same direction as traffic.
Staying alert and avoiding distractions such as phones or earbuds.
Yielding to pedestrians.
Using lights and reflective gear when riding in low-light conditions.
Parents are the first line of defense when it comes to e-bike safety.
Before your child rides:
Choose an e-bike that matches their age, size and experience.
Set clear expectations about where and when they may ride.
Practice together in a parking lot or quiet neighborhood before riding near traffic.
Make helmet use a non-negotiable rule.
Talk about sharing the road and respecting other road users.
As more e-bikes appear on North Dakota roads, drivers should expect to encounter them.
Drivers can help prevent crashes by:
Staying alert and avoiding distractions.
Looking carefully for e-bike riders before turning or backing up.
Giving riders plenty of space when passing.
Slowing down near schools, parks, neighborhoods and trails where riders may be present.
Whether you’re riding on a neighborhood street or commuting across town, being predictable helps everyone stay safe.
Remember to:
Slow down near intersections and driveways.
Make eye contact with drivers before crossing.
Signal before turning.
Watch for gravel, potholes and uneven pavement.
Yield to pedestrians and use extra caution around shared-use paths.
Take a minute to complete a quick safety check:
Helmet fits properly and is securely fastened.
Battery is charged.
Tires are properly inflated.
Brakes are working correctly.
Front and rear lights are functioning (if riding in low-light conditions).
You know your route and local riding rules.