Electric biking is a popular mode of transportation in Columbus. The city of Columbus has also taken steps to encourage the use of e-bikes creating a network of bike lanes and multi-use paths, making it easier for cyclists, including e-bike riders, to navigate the city safely.
Electric biking is becoming increasingly popular in Columbus and our comprehensive e-bike guide will help you enjoy the city on an e-bike.
Columbus Electric Bike Trails
Columbus has a growing network of bike trails that are perfect for electric biking. Here are some of the best electric bike trails in Columbus:
Olentangy Trail
This scenic 13.75-mile trail runs along the Olentangy River, from Worthington to downtown Columbus. It's a popular route for cyclists, runners, and walkers, and it features a mix of on-street bike lanes and off-street paths.
Scioto Greenway Trail
This 12-mile trail runs along the Scioto River, from Dublin to downtown Columbus. It features paved paths and stunning views of the river and surrounding natural areas.
Alum Creek Trail
This 22-mile trail runs from Westerville to Three Creeks Metro Park. It features a mix of paved and unpaved paths, as well as stunning views of Alum Creek Lake and the surrounding nature.
Camp Chase Trail
This 16.5-mile trail runs from downtown Columbus to Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park. It follows the historic Camp Chase railroad corridor and features a mix of paved and unpaved paths.
Blacklick Creek Trail
This 11-mile trail runs from Three Creeks Metro Park to Reynoldsburg. It features a mix of paved and unpaved paths, as well as scenic views of Blacklick Creek.
Electric Bike Infrastructure in Columbus
Columbus is taking steps to improve its infrastructure to accommodate the growing popularity of electric biking. Here are some examples of the electric bike infrastructure in Columbus:
- Bike Lanes: The city of Columbus has added bike lanes to many of its streets, providing a safe and accessible route for cyclists, including electric bikers. The city has also added protected bike lanes to some busy streets to further enhance safety for riders.
- Multi-Use Paths: The city has also created a network of multi-use paths that are ideal for electric biking. These paths are typically wider than bike lanes and are separated from vehicle traffic, providing a more comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.
- CoGo Bike Share: CoGo, the bike share program in Columbus, has added electric bikes to its fleet. This provides a convenient and affordable option for residents and visitors who don't own an electric bike but still want to experience the benefits of e-biking.
- Charging Stations: The city of Columbus has installed charging stations for electric bikes in some areas. This ensures that riders can charge their e-bikes when they need to, even if they're away from home.
Renting an Electric Bike in Columbus
Renting an electric bike in Columbus, Ohio is easy and convenient, with several options available. Here are some of the popular ways to rent an electric bike in Columbus:
Bike Share Programs
The city of Columbus has several bike share programs, including CoGo, which offers electric bikes as part of its fleet. These bikes can be rented by the hour or for a day, and users can pick them up and drop them off at designated stations throughout the city.
E-Bike Rental Companies
There are several companies in Columbus that specialize in electric bike rentals. These companies typically offer a variety of electric bikes, including mountain bikes, city bikes, and touring bikes. They may also provide delivery and pickup services, making it easy to rent an e-bike from anywhere in the city.
Tour Companies
Some tour companies in Columbus offer electric bike tours, which are a fun and unique way to explore the city. These tours typically provide a guide, who takes riders on a scenic route and provides information about the city's history and attractions.
Hotel Rentals
Some hotels in Columbus offer electric bike rentals as a perk for guests. This can be a convenient option for visitors who want to explore the city on an e-bike without having to venture far from their accommodations.
Columbus Electric Bike Shops
Columbus has several electric bike shops that offer a wide range of e-bikes and accessories. Here are some of the best electric bike shops in Columbus:
Third Hand Bicycle Cooperative
Third Hand Bicycle Cooperative specializes in used bicycles, including electric bikes. They also offer repair services, parts, and accessories.
Roll
Roll is a boutique bike shop in the Short North neighborhood of Columbus. They offer a variety of high-end electric bikes, as well as traditional bicycles. They also provide maintenance and repair services.
Baer Wheels
Baer Wheels offers a wide selection of electric bikes, including mountain bikes, city bikes, and cargo bikes. They also provide repair services and accessories.
Orbit City Bikes
Orbit City Bikes offers a variety of electric bikes, as well as traditional bicycles. They also provide repair services and accessories. They specialize in cargo bikes and offer several options for families looking to transport kids and gear.
BikeSource
BikeSource is a chain of bike shops that has several locations throughout Columbus, and they offer a wide range of electric bikes from popular brands. They also provide repair services and accessories.
Columbus E-Bike Rules and Regulations
- Safety Equipment:Riders are required to wear helmets on class 3 electric bikes. If riding at night, e-bikes need to be equipped with lights and reflectors.
- Road Rules: Electric bikes have similar rules of the road to traditional bikes. are limited to a top speed of 20 mph on public roads and bike paths.
- Bike Specifications: In Ohio as long as e-bikes have a motor with a maximum power output of 750 watts and can't go faster than 20 miles per hour on level ground they are treated similarly to normal bikes. E-bikes must have a label displaying their class level, top speed and motor wattage.
- Where to Ride: Class 1 and 2 e-bike riders are allowed to use bike lanes and bike paths in Columbus, class 3 e-bikes are much more limited. Mountain bike trails tend to not allow electric bikes, but they are a case by case basis.
- Age Restrictions: Riders under the age of 16 are not permitted to ride Class 3 e-bikes in Columbus.
- Administrative Requirements: E-bikes don't require any special licensing, insurance, or registration in Columbus.
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