“ASK A TROOPER” by Sgt. Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol

Question: I am interested in getting an E-Bike, but I do not know what the laws are. Can you get me some more information?

Answer: Under Minnesota law, a legal electric-assisted bicycle must meet all of the following requirements:

•             The motor must not exceed 750 watts of power.

•             The maximum assisted speed must not exceed 28 miles per hour.

•             The bicycle must have fully functional pedals that can be used to propel the bike.

Any vehicle that does not meet these requirements is not considered an e-bike under Minnesota law. Any modification that increases speed or increased the motor output may be unlawful.

Age restrictions also apply. Even legal e-bikes may not be operated by anyone under the age of 15.

Additional information can be found https://www.bikemn.org/initiatives/ebike/

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205.  (You can follow him on “X” @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).