Electric bike usage in Austin is on the rise, with more and more people using e-bikes to move around the city. Austin has a well-developed bike infrastructure, with many bike lanes, trails, and bike-friendly streets, making it easy and safe for e-bike riders.
Our e-bike guide to Austin lays out all the important information you need to buy and ride an e-bike in the city.
Austin's Best Electric Bike Trails
Austin offers several great electric bike trails that allow riders to enjoy the city's scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Here are some of the best electric bike trails in Austin:
Lady Bird Lake Trail
This popular trail spans approximately 10 miles and loops around Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin. It offers beautiful views of the skyline, bridges, and the lake itself.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Located in North Austin, Walnut Creek Park features a variety of trails suitable for electric bikes. The trails wind through a wooded area with occasional creek crossings, providing a pleasant and immersive biking experience.
Southern Walnut Creek Trail
This 7.3-mile trail is part of the city's trail system and is designed specifically for cyclists and pedestrians. The paved trail offers a mix of natural and urban scenery as it winds through East Austin.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Known for its natural beauty, the Barton Creek Greenbelt offers a range of trails for all skill levels. While some sections might be challenging for electric bikes, there are also relatively flat portions that can be enjoyed by riders of all abilities.
Brushy Creek Regional Trail
Located just outside of Austin in Cedar Park, this 10.6-mile trail follows Brushy Creek and offers a mix of scenic views, wildlife sightings, and park amenities. It's a great option for those seeking a longer ride.
Shoal Creek Trail
Running through the heart of Austin, the Shoal Creek Trail is a 3.9-mile paved trail that provides riders with a peaceful escape from the bustling city. It offers a combination of natural beauty and urban landscapes.
Austin Electric Bike Tours
Austin E-Bike Rules and Regulations
- Safety Equipment: Riders under the age of 18 need to wear a helmet.
- Road Rules: The local rules for electric bikes in Austin are regulated by the state of Texas, and the City of Austin. According to Texas state law, electric bikes are subject to the same laws as traditional bicycles. Riders of e-bikes are also required to follow the same traffic laws as traditional bicycle riders, such as stopping at stop signs and traffic signals.
- Bike Specifications: In Texas electric bikes are designated into three classes. Class 1 is a pedal assist e-bike with a max speed of 20 mph. Class 2 is a throttle e-bike with max speed of 20 mph. Class 3 is a pedal assist e-bike with a max speed of 28 mph.
- Where to Ride: Austin has run pilots allowing e-bikes on specific multi-use trails. The rules around this are constantly evolving so it is best to clarify where you can and cannot ride if you plan on making use of the bike trails. E-bikes are allowed on all roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less.
- Age Restrictions: You must be 15 or older to ride a Class 3 electric bike.
- Administrative Requirements: Electric bikes are not subject to license, registration, or insurance requirements.
Electric Bike Infrastructure in Austin
The city of Austin has a comprehensive network of bike lanes and trails, many of which are marked with signage and pavement markings. The city also has several multi-use trails that are open to e-bikes, such as the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, and the Lance Armstrong Bikeway.
Many local organizations and cycling shops support e-bike usage by providing information about bike-related events and initiatives in the city, as well as promoting the use of e-bikes as a sustainable mode of transportation.
The city continues to make efforts to improve the infrastructure and make it easier for people to use e-bikes as a mode of transportation.
Austin's Best Electric Bike Shops
Austin's e-bike shops offer a wide range of electric bikes, from city commuters to off-road models, catering to the diverse needs of Austinites.
Electric Avenue Bikes
Electric Avenue Bikes is an electric bike shop that sells all the major e-bike brands including Gazelle, Riese & Muller, Stromer, Benno, and Tern. This shop also offers comprehensive service options and a wide range of bike accessories.
Bike Farm
Bike Farm is a bike shop that opened in 2010 with a great selection of electric bikes and a diverse assortment of brands. They offer a full suite of services and financing options for your purchase. The shop is a fixture in the community offering events and bike tours.
ATX Bikes
ATX Bikes is one of the best cycling shops in Austin. They have a selection of electric bikes. They also have a large inventory of different bike parts, accessories, and apparel.
Mellow Johnny's
Mellow Johnny's is an Austin institution located in the middle of the city. A great community hub for cyclists with rentals, and rides that are popular. An extensive inventory of electric bikes, and some of the most knowledgeable service people in Austin.
These are just some of the best electric bike shops in Austin. There are many more great options throughout the city.
Renting an Electric Bike in Austin
Electric bike rentals in Austin are a popular and convenient option for both tourists and locals. With its warm weather, picturesque parks, and bike-friendly streets, Austin is a great place to explore on e-bike. Renting an e-bike allows you to see the city at your own pace, take in the sights and sounds, and experience the unique culture of Austin.
Barton Springs Bike Rental and Tours
Barton Springs Bike Rental offers Class 1 pedal-assist electric bikes to rent and explore the city. You can also book an electric bike tour to see all of the famous Austin landmarks for $69.50. If you have your own idea of what you might want you can set up a customized tour too.
Austin BCycle
Austin BCycle is a bike-sharing service that offers electric bikes for rent. They have rental stations throughout the city, making it easy to pick up and drop off a bike.
Local Bike Shops
Most electric bike shops also offer rental options so that you can try an electric bike out for the day in the city. It's always best to check the availability and make a reservation in advance.
Simple Guides: Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Oklahoma City, Kansas City, Denver, Phoenix, Las Vegas
