Motors & Trails

What’s legal and what isn't when it comes to two-wheel vehicles with motors on the Lake Links Trail? And, at least as important, what is safe and courteous?

With summer in full swing, the Lake Links Trail is busier than ever with strollers, dog walkers, runners, bicyclists – and, increasingly, two-wheeled vehicles with motors. There have been some near misses with fast-moving vehicles, both e-bikes and e-motos, zooming by or weaving around those enjoying a more leisurely outing.

What's OK and what isn’t when it comes to operating e-bikes on an off-road trail? Other fast-moving motor-driven conveyances are not allowed on off-road trail infrastructure.

The White Bear Police Department has the answer for all of us:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mvri-lnjmTE

In a nutshell, in Minnesota state law:

• State law defines three classes of electric-assisted bicycles (e-bikes). All must have operable pedals and motors that are 750 watts or less:

  • Class 1 - pedal assist up to 20 mph

  • Class 2 - pedal and/or throttle assist up to 20 mph

  • Class 3 - pedal assist up to 28 mph NO THROTTLE

• E-bikes  are defined as bicycles and are legal to use on off-road trails where bicycles are permitted. Bicycles, e-bikes, and e-motos are not allowed on the sidewalks in downtown White Bear Lake.

• Vehicles with motors over 750 watts are not e-bikes and may not be used on off-road trails.

• Youth must be 12 or older to ride an e-scooter, and those under 18 must wear helmets.

• You must be 15 or older to operate an e-bike. 

• Any two- or three-wheeled vehicle that goes more than 20 mph with a throttle, more than 28 mph, or operates under its own power without pedals is not an e-bike and cannot be ridden on off-road trails designated for use by bicycles. These motor vehicles, commonly known as e-motos are subject to state licensing, liability insurance, and operator licensing requirements if ridden on public roads.

If there ever were a place for the Golden Rule to shine, this would be it. Please, follow the letter of the law when using the Lake Links Trail. And beyond that, follow the rule of kindness and strive to make – rather than break – other trail users’ day.

Want to know more? BikeMN’s e-bike resource page has lots more information.