Illinois Law Summary 2023

Introduction

E-bikes are growing in popularity in Illinois. E-bikes are a fun and convenient way to travel, but they also come with legal responsibilities and limitations that you should be aware of. In this document, we will give you an overview of the Illinois e-bike rules and links to the best trails and organizations.

 Illinois PDF from PeopleForBikes

E-Bike Rules and Regulations Summary

1. E-bikes are allowed on all trails except those specifically closed to them.
   
   2. E-bikes must be operated in a manner that does not endanger other trail users or damage the trail.
   
   3. E-bikes must yield to all other trail users.
   
   4. E-bike riders must stay on designated trails and not ride around or through closed areas.
   
   5. E-bikes must have a working headlight and taillight when operated on trails at night.
   
   6. E-bike riders must follow all other rules and regulations for other trail users.

Illinois E-Bike Trail Specifics

There are three types of electric bikes, which are classified by how much power the motor has:

Type 1: A motorized bicycle with a maximum design speed of no more than 20 miles per hour when operated by a person weighing 170 pounds.

Type 2: A low-speed electric bicycle with a maximum design speed of no more than 20 miles per hour when operated by a person weighing 170 pounds.

Type 3: A motorized tricycle with a maximum design speed of no more than 25 miles per hour when operated by a person weighing 200 pounds.

All electric bikes must have a rear-view mirror, a bell or horn, and lights (headlight and taillight) when operated at night.

There is no minimum age to operate an electric bike, but riders under 18 must wear helmets.

Electric bikes are allowed on all trails unless otherwise posted.

Top Illinois Trails on AllTrails to get you started!

AllTrails.com is a website that helps you find and explore hiking, biking, running, and more trails. You can browse by location, difficulty, length, rating, and activity type. You can also create custom maps and routes, track your progress and share your adventures with others.

You can select trails by difficulty, length, and other options – a great place to learn where to ride your new ebike. My wife and I use Alltrails every week to ride in Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Conclusion

E-biking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, exercise, and reduce your carbon footprint. Whether you are looking for a leisurely ride along the scenic Fox River Trail¹, a challenging climb up the hills of Shawnee National Forest¹, or a fast commute through the busy streets of Chicago², there is an e-bike for you. But before you hop on your e-bike, make sure you know the laws and regulations that apply to your class of e-bikes in Illinois³⁴⁵. You must also have a license and registration for your e-bike³⁵ and wear a helmet if you are under 18 years old⁵. By following these rules, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable e-biking experience for yourself and others.

If you want to learn more about e-biking in Illinois, here are some helpful links:

• Support for e-Bike Incentive Programs – Ride Illinois: This website provides information on advocating for more e-bike-friendly policies and programs in Illinois⁴.
• Illinois State Electric Bike Laws – EVELO: This website gives an overview of the different classes of e-bikes and their legal requirements in Illinois².
• 11 Best Bike Rides in Illinois [MUST SEE] and Trails for Cycling: This website lists some of the best places to ride your e-bike in Illinois, with maps, photos, and descriptions¹.

We hope this article has given you helpful information on e-biking in Illinois. Happy riding!

Before your go, check out our E-Bike Maintenance Checklist to ensure your e-bike is in peak shape.

These datasheets are provided by  

People For Bikes Org