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EASTERN TRAIL E-BIKE INFORMATION

Class 1 and Class 2 electric bikes, or “ebikes” are allowed on the Eastern Trail. According to Maine law, Class 3 ebikes are only allowed on trails if the facility manager agrees to allow their use. The Eastern Trail Management District (ETMD), consisting of representatives from the communities which have trail within there municipal borders, is responsible for managing and maintaining the trail. The ETMD only allows Class 1 and Class 2 electric bikes to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all trail users.

Maine law defines the following ebike classifications.

Sec. 1. 29-A MRSA §101, sub-§22-B

22-B.  Electric bicycle.   “Electric bicycle” means a 2-wheel or 3-wheel bicycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts that is a Class 1 electric bicycle, a Class 2 electric bicycle or a Class 3 electric bicycle as follows.

  1. “Class 1 electric bicycle” means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
  2. “Class 2 electric bicycle” means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle but is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
  3. “Class 3 electric bicycle” means an electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour.

Maine law also requires all ebike operators and passengers under the age of 16 to wear a helmet.

Please be aware and respectful of other riders, walkers, runners and other trail users when riding your Class 1 or Class 2 ebike on the Eastern Trail. Below are some simple rules for ensuring a safe and pleasant experience when biking on the trail.

Courtesy and Safety on the Eastern Trail:

  • Leash your Pets
  • Bikes – Maintain a Safe Speed for walkers and children
  • Keep Right – Pass Left
  • Signal Before Passing (ring your bell and say “on your left“)
https://www.easterntrail.org/