E-Bikes and Electric Motorcycles

Know Your Ride - What’s the difference?

Graphic titled “Know Your Ride” comparing an e-bike and an e-motorcycle. The e-bike section explains that e-bikes use throttle and pedal assist, go up to 20 MPH, require no license, are allowed on bike paths, and use motors under 750 watts. The e-motorcycle section states that a license, insurance, registration, and motorcycle endorsement are required and bike path use is prohibited.

Know the rules before you roll. Not all electric two-wheelers are created qual. While e-bikes and electric motorcycles may look alike, they’re governed by very different laws in Colorado and come with different responsibilities.

Before you buy or ride, it’s important to understand what sets them apart in order to make an informed, safe, and legal choice.

What is an Electric Motor-Driven Cycle?

What is an Electric Motor-Driven Cycle?

An electric motor-driven cycle typically has:

  • Higher speeds than e-bikes (often over 30 mph)
  • A more powerful motor (greater than 750 watts)
  • No pedals or pedals that are not functional

Because of these features, they are not classified as bicycles under Colorado law.

Why this matters

If your vehicle is an electric motorcycle:

  • The rider must be 16 or older and must have a valid driver’s license with motorcycle rider or "M" designation
  • It must be registered with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and must display an CDOT-provided plate
  • It must be insured
  • Riders must obey motor vehicle laws, including helmet requirements for any rider under 18.

Know Before You Buy or Ride

Before buying your e-bike or e-moto, make sure you know what type of vehicle you have. Just because it looks like a bike doesn’t mean it's treated like one under the law.

When in doubt, check your manufacturer's specifications or contact the Littleton Police Department for questions.

What is an E-Bike?

What is an Electric Bike?

An electric bicycle is a bicycle or tricycle that is equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.

E-bike Classes

E-bikes are divided into three classes:

Class Description Minimum Age Maximum Assisted Speed
Class 1 Motor assists only when pedaling. Not applicable 20 miles per hour
Class 2 Motor can propel the bike without pedaling up to 20 miles per hour. Not applicable 20 miles per hour
Class 3 Motor assists only when pedaling. Not applicable 28 miles per hour


License, registration, and insurance are not required for operating an e-bike that meets the requirements of any of the above three classes.

If the device does not comply with those definitions and requirements, such as not having pedals or having a wheel that is less than sixteen inches in diameter, the device would either be a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle, depending on horsepower.

Know Where to Ride

Knowing where you're permitted to ride your e-bike or electric motorcycle is important. 

The use of e-bikes (class 1-3) or electric motorcycles in certain locations throughout Littleton is strictly prohibited.

Where bicycles, e-bike classes, and e-motorcycles are allowed at city locations

City Locations Bicycles Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 E-motorcycle
Sidewalks Yes Yes Yes No No
Shared-use paths Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Multi-use paths Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Roadways Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Bike lanes Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Business store fronts No No No No No
Park grass No No No No No
Park sidewalks Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Park fields No No No No No
Skate parks No No No No No

*Remember: E-bikes are never allowed where signage prohibits them.

Sidewalks, parks, and trails are shared spaces. Whether you're cruising to class or enjoying a weekend ride, being courteous to pedestrians and other cyclists keeps everyone safe and shows respect for our community.

Know the Rules of the Road

Below are important reminders on how to ride these devices and potential consequences for unsafe or illegal riding. 

Ride Smart. Ride Respectfully.

  • Be courteous and respectful to others on the road
  • Treat pedestrians, drivers, and fellow riders with consideration. Littleton is a shared space.

Follow the Rules of the Road

  • Obey speed limits - riding any device that goes over 25 MPH? You shouldn’t be on the sidewalk.
  • Stop at red lights and stop signs - look before moving and alternate with traffic.
  • Use crosswalks - wait for the signal before crossing. Do not cross mid-street.
  • Slow down at driveways and intersections - especially near schools and parks.
  • Ride the right direction - never against traffic or on sidewalks in the opposite direction.

Share the Road Responsibly

  • Ride in pairs, not packs. Street takeovers aren’t safe or legal.
  • Move aside for pedestrians, give space and pass respectfully.
  • Wear your gear. Helmets, lights, and bike reflectors help protect you and make you visible.
  • Stop for police, if lights and sirens are on, pull over safely and immediately.

Important Reminders

Fleeing from law enforcement is not just dangerous, it comes with serious consequences.

If you choose to break the law, here's what you’re risking:

  • Arrest (misdemeanor or felony charges)
  • Parent/guardian notification and liability
  • Booking and potential transfer to juvenile detention
  • Costly civil and criminal fines
  • Bike impounded for a minimum of 20 days at your expense

School officials, including your School Resource Officer, will be notified.

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