The holidays are around the corner, and you may be considering buying an electric bike. Before you make the purchase, check the manufacturer’s specifications to be sure you understand how the bike is classified and what laws apply. This is especially important if you are buying an e-bike for a youth rider!
Electric Bikes
Class 1
- Pedal assist only
- 20 MPH max speed
- Electric motor 750 watts or less
- Allowed on multi-use paths and designated open space trails, such as the Coal Creek Trail, Meadowlark Trail, and Coalton Trailhead.
Class 2
- Pedal-assist & throttle
- 20 MPH max speed
- Electric motor 750 watts or less
- Not recommended for children younger than 16
- Allowed on multi-use paths and designated open space trails, such as the Coal Creek Trail, Meadowlark Trail, and Coalton Trailhead.
Class 3
- Pedal-assist only
- 28 MPH max speed
- Electric motor 750 watts or less
- Must be age 16 or older to operate
- Helmet required under age 18
- Speedometer required
- Front and back lights required at night
- Only allowed on the road and in dedicated bike lanes.
Low-Powered Scooters
- Power output: Motor more than 750 watts and less than 4,476 watts.
- Operators must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a state low-power scooter three-year registration sticker.
- Not allowed on pedestrian paths or trails.
Visit the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles to learn more about Low-Power Scooters.
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Electric Motorcycles
- Power output: Motor more than 4,476 watts.
- Operators must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a license plate.
- Not allowed on pedestrian paths or trails.
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Enforcement efforts have begun; citations are being issued for:
Operating without a license, unregistered Low Power Scooters, and riding without insurance.
Penalties for riding without insurance include:
- A minimum fine of $500
- Up to 40 hours of community service
Additionally, owners of low-power scooters can be cited if they allow an uninsured juvenile to operate the vehicle, carrying the same penalties.
Learn more about e-bike laws, safe riding practices, and community safety for students
Open ONLY to parents, students, and BVSD staff.
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November 19, 2025
6 to 7:30 p.m.
Louisville Middle School
1341 Main St., Louisville
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The Louisville Police Department will host a panel discussion and Q&A for parents and students on e-bike safety, laws, and awareness. Representatives from the Louisville Police Department, Louisville Fire District, Good Samaritan Hospital, and the Boulder Valley School District will participate.
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