Alaska E-Bike Information
Electric bikes, or e-bikes, allow you to choose the level of power assistance that you want while riding. You can use the full electric assistance for a quick and effortless ride, or pedal as you would on a regular bike for a workout. The versatility of e-bikes allows you to blend exercise into your daily routine without making significant changes to your schedule. In fact, studies have shown that e-bikes can provide cardiovascular benefits. E-biking is a fun and convenient way to incorporate physical activity into your day.
What are the three classes of e-bikes?
|
Class 1 |
Class 2 |
Class 3 |
Pedal Assist |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Throttle |
No |
Yes |
No |
Max Assisted Speed |
20 mph |
20 mph |
28 mph |
Class 1: The motor kicks in only when you pedal, and stops helping at 20 mph.
Class 2: Also has a pedal-assist mode up to 20 mph plus a purely throttle-powered mode.
Class 3: Is solely pedal-assist (like class 1), but assistance continues until you hit 28 mph.
The distance that you can travel on a single charge of your electric bike, or e-bike, will depend on various factors such as the terrain, wind conditions, your own pedaling power, and the weight you are carrying (including yourself and any cargo). Most e-bikes have a minimum range of 20 miles, but there are options available with a longer range of up to 100 miles. These e-bikes may have a larger battery pack, which can add to their weight. To maximize the range of your e-bike, consider looking for a model with a larger battery capacity and a more efficient motor. The speed of an electric bike, or e-bike, can vary depending on the class it falls into. There are three main classes of e-bikes: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. Class 1 e-bikes have a top speed of 20 mph and are powered by pedaling. Class 2 e-bikes have a top speed of 20 mph and also have a throttle that allows the rider to use the electric motor without pedaling. Class 3 e-bikes have a top speed of 28 mph and are powered by pedaling.
Despite a previous articles stating otherwise, e-bikes are fully permitted on trails according to the Anchorage Ordinance 2016-67. E-bikes are considered low-speed bicycles and are defined as devices propelled by human power with at least two wheels, one of which is over 14 inches in diameter.
E-bikes are allowed on public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in Alaska. The BLM may also determine which non-motorized trails e-bikes are allowed on. E-bikes are defined as bikes with electric motors that are 750 watts or less. Motorized areas and trails, such as those at the OHV Park, are open to e-bike use. On non-motorized trails, e-bike use is only allowed with the permission of the BLM manager.