Electric Bicycles & Motorcycles
**Section 23 of Town of Gypsum's Model Traffic Code (link to municipal code)
What is an E-Bike?
An e‑bike is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance while you ride, either through pedal‑assist or a throttle. It’s designed to make cycling easier by giving riders an added boost, especially on hills or longer distances.
We know e‑bike rules can be confusing, so the first step is identifying which class of e‑bike you have. Colorado recognizes three classes:
- Class 1 – Pedal assist only, up to 20 mph
- Class 2 – Throttle-assisted, up to 20 mph
- Class 3 – Pedal assist only, up to 28 mph, and requires a speedometer
Where can I ride my E-Bike?
- Class 1 and Class 2 e‑bikes can be used on paved bike paths, paved pedestrian paths, and paved recreational trails, but they are not allowed on soft‑surface trails.
- Class 3 e‑bikes are not allowed on bicycle or pedestrian paths—paved or soft‑surface—unless the path is within a street or highway or located in a designated bike lane.
- Please remember that the Municipal Campus and Skatepark are dismount zones for e‑bikes, scooters, and e‑moto bikes.
Rules & Regulations
- Riders under 18 must wear a helmet.
- Riders must be at least 16 to operate a Class 3 e‑bike.
- All riders must follow traffic laws, yield to pedestrians, use an audible signal when passing, ride on the right side of sidewalks and paths, display the correct class label, and have the required equipment such as lights and reflectors.
- For everyone’s safety, there is a 10‑mph speed limit on sidewalks and a 15‑mph speed limit on shared‑use recreational paths, and riders must comply with roadway speed limits.
- Please park only in designated areas.
Let’s work together to keep our community’s paths safe and enjoyable for all.
E-Bike Example

What is an E-Moto?
E‑motos, high‑powered electric motorcycles, are becoming more common, and we know it can be confusing to understand what’s allowed. The concern are these larger, faster vehicles being ridden on streets, sidewalks, trails, and parks without meeting legal requirements.
- Any electric bicycle or scooter over 750 watts is not permitted on sidewalks, and riders under 18 must wear a helmet.
- Many e‑motos have motors between 1,000 and 6,000+ watts, can reach speeds of 30–65+ mph, operate mainly by throttle, and may include pedals that don’t function.
According to CDOT and Colorado law, vehicles that exceed e-bike classifications may legally be considered motor vehicles or motorcycles and can require:
- Registration
- Insurance
- A valid driver’s license
- Compliance with motor vehicle laws and equipment requirements
E-Moto Examples
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Safety Tips
Parents and guardians are encouraged to:
- Review vehicle specifications carefully before purchasing online
- Verify the vehicle is labeled as a Class 1, 2, or 3 e-bike
- Understand Gypsum’s e-bike laws and local trail restrictions
- Ensure riders wear helmets and follow traffic laws
Safety Reminders for All Riders:
- Wear a helmet
- Obey traffic laws and trail rules
- Ride at safe speeds
- Be alert around pedestrians and vehicles
- Use lights and reflective gear at night.

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