Thanks to everyone who provided input on whether or not e-bikes should be allowed on the City's paved trails. City staff will share your feedback with City Council at the June 28 Work Session where Council will discuss the issue. Watch live, June 28 at 6 p.m. on cable channel 14 or online at fcgov.com/cable14.
Should electric assisted bicycles (e-bikes) be allowed on the City's paved trails?
BACKGROUND
Currently City Code prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle or other “motorized means of conveyance” on City trails; this includes e-bikes. Recently, a group of local citizens have been advocating for a change to the City Code to allow e-bikes on paved trails. The current number of e-bikes in Fort Collins is estimated at 50 bikes with the potential for rapid growth.
DETAILS
E-bikes
- E-bikes are more like bicycles than they are like other motorized vehicles (mopeds, motorcycles).
- E-bikes can travel up to 20 mph and can accelerate more quickly than bikes without motors.
- E-bikes can travel up to 20 mph and can accelerate more quickly than bikes without motors.
Compatibility with City Trails
- Some of the City’s paved trails have tight turns and segments with limited visibility.
- Paved City trails are heavily used and can become congested.
User’s Experience
- Allowing e-bikes on the paved trails allows a motorized vehicle into many of our parks and natural areas, as the paved trails frequently run through them.
- Introducing e-bikes may fundamentally alter the experience of visitors who utilize natural areas and parks as places that are free from power-assisted machines.
Transportation
- Allowing e-bikes on paved trails may encourage alternative commuting options.
People with Disabilities
- People with mobility disabilities are allowed to use e-bikes on City paved trails.