Downloadable E-Bike Guide

Electric Bikes (E-Bikes)

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Overview

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are a fun, efficient way to get around Chanhassen. As their popularity grows, it’s important to understand what’s legal, where you can ride and how to share the road and trails safely.

What Makes an E-Bike Legal in Minnesota

An e-bike is considered legal if it meets these requirements:

Has pedals
Includes a saddle seat
Has a motor of 750 watts or less
Cannot exceed 28 mph
Rider must be at least 15 years old

Classes of E-Bikes

All three classes are legal in Chanhassen:

Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph
- Helmet not required but advised
Class 2: Pedal-assist or throttle, up to 20 mph
- Helmet not required but advised
Class 3: Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph
- If the rider is under 18 years old, a helmet is legally required

Allowed, following the same rules as bicycles.

This means, ride near the right side of the lane or shoulder when it’s safe, but you’re allowed to move toward the center when the lane is too narrow to share, you’re turning, or you need to avoid hazards.

Rules of the Road & Trails

Ride at a safe speed
Yield to pedestrians
Obey all traffic signs
Signal or give a verbal warning before passing

Not Everything with a Motor Is an E-Bike

Some motorized bikes, often called “e-moto” bikes:

Exceed 28 mph
Do not have pedals
Require registration like a motorcycle (These are not allowed on sidewalks, trails, or most roads.)

Best Practices for Safe Riding

Stay alert and watch for others
Yield at crosswalks
Wear a helmet
Know your e-bike’s class
Do not modify your motor or speed settings

Chanhassen is proud to be bike-friendly. By riding legally and responsibly, we can keep our trails, sidewalks and streets safe and enjoyable for everyone.