Colorado Electric Bike Regulations Explained (2025 Guide)

Colorado has embraced electric bikes faster than many other states, thanks to its strong cycling culture and expansive trail systems. But the state’s regulations aren’t identical to those found elsewhere. Colorado combines statewide rules with strong local authority, which means understanding the basics — and then checking regional guidelines — is essential for every rider.

If you ride in Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, or mountain regions, here’s how the law applies today.

Are Ebikes Allowed in Colorado?

Yes. Colorado legally recognizes electric bikes and places them under bicycle regulations as long as the bike fits the state’s class system and motor limit. Ebikes do not fall under motorcycle or moped laws and are not treated as motor vehicles.

However, Colorado is unique because it grants local control over trail access. This means a bike that is legal on pavement statewide may be restricted on dirt or natural-surface trails depending on the county or land manager.

How Colorado Defines Eike Classes

Colorado uses the familiar three-tier classification, but the way cities enforce them can differ:

• Class 1: These electric bicycles have electric motors that can’t exceed 20 miles per hour (mph). They have pedal assist, meaning the motor can power you forward when you’re pedaling, but they don’t have throttle assist (a mechanism that drives the bike forward even when you aren’t pedaling).
• Class 2: Class 2 ebikes have motors that don’t allow speeds of more than 20 mph. However, Class 2 ebikes have throttle assist and can move forward even if you aren’t pedaling.
• Class 3: Class 3 ebikes are faster and can reach speeds of 28 mph. Colorado law requires Class 3 ebikes to have a speedometer. Additionally, a Class 3 ebike can’t have throttle assist.

All ebikes must stay within the 750-watt motor limit to qualify as bikes under Colorado law.

The class label matters because it determines what kind of trail or pathway you’re allowed to enter — and that varies widely by city.

Colorado Ebike Laws

Cyclists with Class 1 and Class 2 ebikes are allowed on regular bike paths and pedestrian lanes. However, ebike riders with Class 3 ebikes aren’t allowed on bicycle or pedestrian paths (unless a local jurisdiction allows otherwise or the path is part of a highway or street).

Are ebikes allowed on Colorado trails?

Colorado riders enjoy broad access on pavement, but multi-use paths and natural trails may have restrictions.

Streets, Bike Lanes, and Shoulders

All three classes can operate on most paved roads and bike lanes. Colorado classifies ebikes as bicycles in these areas, so access is straightforward.

Shared-Use Paths (Paved)

• Class 1 and Class 2 are typically welcome unless a local rule states otherwise.
• Class 3 is the most restricted and often not allowed on shared-use paths.

Cities like Denver and Fort Collins openly publish ebike pathway maps; Boulder and Jefferson County take a more restrictive approach.

Natural-Surface Trails

This is where Colorado differs most from other states. Access is not standardized statewide.

Some regions allow Class 1 on certain dirt trails, while others prohibit all ebikes on natural-surface singletrack.

Trail systems in Boulder County, Jefferson County, and various open-space programs have their own rules — and they enforce them.

How old do you have to be to ride an ebike in Colorado?

You must be at least 16 to ride a Class 3 ebike in Colorado. That said, you don’t need any special driver’s license to ride an ebike (like you would with a car, for example).

Do you need a helmet when riding an ebike in Colorado?

If you’re under 18 and riding a Class 3 ebike, you must wear a helmet. Learn more about Colorado’s helmet laws — and find out about other states’ requirements — with our guide.

Are ebikes allowed in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of Colorado’s most famous outdoor attractions. You can ride an ebike anywhere in Rocky Mountain National Park where traditional bicycles are allowed – essentially on roads (paved and dirt) and parking areas that are open to motor vehicles, but not on trails, including the East Shore Trail.

Do you need a license or registration?

No. Colorado does not require a driver’s license, insurance, or registration for ebikes that fall within the Class 1–3 system.

As long as the bike complies with motor wattage and class limits, it is treated the same as a traditional bicycle.

Local ordinances for ebikes in Colorado

We’ve covered some general ebiking guidelines in Colorado. However, rules may vary depending on your location.

Colorado allows significant regional discretion. This means:

• Denver offers some of the most ebike-friendly paved trail access.
• Boulder County limits ebikes on many natural-surface trails.
• Colorado Springs has mixed policies depending on trail type.
• Jefferson County Open Space evaluates ebike access trail-by-trail.
• Mountain towns often restrict ebikes on singletrack to preserve trail conditions.

Because cities and counties are actively updating their e-bike policies, especially on natural-surface and open-space trails, always confirm local rules before you ride.

What you should know before riding your ebike in Colorado

Before you start e-cycling in Colorado, look up the regulations where you want to ride. As you can see from the above guide, the rules vary. Beyond this, follow these best practices for a safe and enjoyable e-biking experience:

• Wear a helmet. Colorado law requires anyone under 18 to wear a helmet on a Class 3 ebike. Riders 18 and over are not legally required to wear one, but it’s still strongly recommended.
• Plan your route. Some bike trails can be more fun than others. Popular options in the Rocky Mountains National Park include the Old Fall River Road and Trail Ridge Road. Check details like elevation, length, and opening times. For example, the two trails mentioned are open from April 1 to Nov. 30.
• Pick the right bike. The type of ebike can make a big difference. For example, if you’re planning to go off-roading in unpaved areas, you probably want a bike with fat tires (find out why).

Discover the great outdoors of Colorado with a Velotric ebike

Get the perfect bike for your Colorado adventures from Velotric. The Discover 2 is ideal for urban commuting.

Summary

Colorado provides a clear legal foundation for ebike riders while giving cities and counties room to tailor rules to their landscapes. Pavement access is easy to understand; trail access requires a bit more attention. Once you know the class system and local variations, Colorado is one of the best places in the U.S. to ride an ebike.

Official Resources

The above information is sourced from these websites and was last updated in November 2025. If you have any questions, you can visit the following sites directly for confirmation.

1. Colorado General Assembly – Issue brief / summary on electric bicycles and electric scooters (explains classification, paths, and why they are treated as bicycles under state law)
2. Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-1-102 – Definitions (including “electrical assisted bicycle” and exclusion from “motor vehicle”)
3. Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1412 – Operation of bicycles and electrical assisted bicycles (classes, paths, sidewalks, age & helmet rules for Class 3)
4. Rocky Mountain National Park – Biking and e-bike rules (NPS official page)
5. Jefferson County Open Space – E-bikes policy
6. City of Colorado Springs – E-bikes on City Trails info page