A recent surge in the popularity of electric motorcycles has left many residents and visitors confused. As these streamlined and silent electric two-wheelers become a more common sight, new owners are unaware of their classification and where they are permitted to be ridden. Some individuals have assumed that electric motorcycles can freely navigate the same pathways as bicycles and E-bikes, leading to a pressing need for clarification on the rules and regulations governing their use. The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR), in collaboration with the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), St. George Police Department, and PeopleforBikes, is working to address the rising confusion by clarifying existing laws and encouraging proper education, including required off-highway vehicle (OHV) courses, and responsible use.
“This is an exciting time in the realm of outdoor recreation, and we’re thrilled about the growth in electric-powered recreation,” said Chase Pili, the Division of Outdoor Recreation’s OHV program manager. “While we encourage everyone to enjoy the thrill of outdoor recreation, our goal is always on safety and education, and riders must recognize the rules and regulations to ensure safety while on the trails.”
Per Utah code 41-6a-102, an electric motorcycle is defined by its speed capacity, weight and motor power. They have powerful motors capable of 40-50 mph speeds and faster, a dedicated throttle and foot pegs or aftermarket pedal kits. Due to their potential speed and weight, they are not permitted on trails where motorized vehicles are prohibited, as they can pose significant safety risks to other trail users and the land.
“It is important that we understand the differences between electric motorcycles and E-bikes as it’s a matter of public safety,” said Sgt. Jeremy Needles with the St. George Police Department. “By clearly defining these distinctions and guidelines, and providing the necessary educational opportunities, we aim to foster a safer, more enjoyable experience for all Utahns.”
While they offer an exciting ride, electric motorcycles, including popular brands such as Surron, Talaria, Cake and Segway, are fundamentally different from electric bikes and come with distinct regulations.
“Just like gasoline-powered versions, electric motorcycles are classified as “motorcycles” under Utah law and need to be registered when operated on public lands and roads,” said Monte Roberts, director of the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles. “This registration ensures that every user understands the rules of the road, or trail, and can be safely identified.”
For electric motorcycle riders, Utah law stipulates specific safety requirements. Riders must wear certified helmets that adhere to safety standards. Additionally, all adults must complete the free OHV education course to operate an OHV, including off-highway electric motorcycles on public lands in Utah. The new education course was launched at the beginning of 2023 to increase rider knowledge and safety and to help preserve access.
Additionally, operators under 18 must have a youth OHV education certificate to operate an OHV on public land, road or trail. Drivers under 18 must take the existing, separate youth OHV safety course for $35 or take an approved, in-person, hands-on skills course and exam.
“Our goal is to increase overall awareness and education of Utah’s OHV laws and rules to help increase rider safety and responsible recreation,” said Pili. “Increased user education will directly benefit the entire recreation community by promoting respectful, sustainable, and on-trail OHV operation and respect for the communities affected by OHV operation and recreation.”
E-bikes come with permanently affixed cranks used in combination with the bike’s electric assistance, have motors of 750 watts or less, and be incapable of speeds greater than 28 mph on level ground. E-bikes are categorized into three distinct classes: Class 1 E-bikes do not have a throttle and are pedal-assist up to 20 mph; Class 2 E-bikes have a throttle and pedal assist, also with a maximum speed of 20 mph; and Class 3 E-bikes do not have a throttle, and are pedal-assist up to 28 mph and require a speedometer.
All e-bike riders are encouraged to familiarize themselves with trail-specific regulations. While many trails in Utah welcome E-bikes, some may have restrictions based on the bike’s class or other ecological or safety concerns.
“Utah’s trails and roads offer some of the most breathtaking experiences in the country, but these spaces are shared among various users and are subject to specific laws,” said Rachel Fussell, policy and program manager for PeopleforBikes. “Our collaboration with the Division of Outdoor Recreation allows us to jointly address the importance of respecting those laws and each other, creating a harmonious outdoor environment for everyone to enjoy.”
Understanding regulations is especially important when regional trails and other recreation facilities cross boundaries and are governed by more than one jurisdiction. The Jordan River Trail, for example, extends across three counties and 16 municipalities, and each has the independent authority to regulate trail usage by equipment type and speed. While an e-bike may be permitted in Utah County, it may not be allowed when crossing into Salt Lake County.
“While we’re working to address consistency across jurisdictions to make it easier for users to navigate regulations, safety remains a top priority,” says Soren Simonsen, executive director of the Jordan River Commission. “Certain classes of E-bikes and electric motorcycles designed for higher speeds pose serious safety concerns for someone pushing a stroller or walking a dog, and are just not appropriate on the Jordan River Trail. We are fortunate to have partners constantly working on opportunities for all kinds of outdoor recreation uses at the Jordan River Parkway, such as the recently expanded Jordan River OHV State Park in Davis County, which is the perfect place for these types of equipment.”
For more information on where E-bikes are permissible and the obligations of e-motorcycle riders, please visit ohv.utah.gov. Click here for the Division of Wildlife Resources’ rules for e-bike use in waterfowl and wildlife management areas. To learn more about PeopleforBikes’ national E-Bike Smart educational campaign, click here.
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