Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular in Detroit as a city with a large footprint where more convenient ways to get around are constantly in demand. Some companies and organizations in the city are promoting the use of e-bikes as a way to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. Additionally, Detroit has a growing number of bike-sharing programs that offer e-bikes for rent.
Our comprehensive e-bike guide to Detroit will help you navigate the city on e-bike and find the best trails, shops, and rental options.
Detroit's E-Bike Rules and Regulations
- Safety Equipment: Riders of Class 3 e-bikes must wear a helmet under the age of 18.
- Road Rules: Detroit mostly follows the state of Michigan for rules and regulations on electric bikes. Electric bikes are treated as normal bicycles in most cases. Where they are allowed to ride depends on the class of e-bike.
- Bike Specifications: Electric bikes must have a motor with less than 750 watts of power. They must also have operable pedals and a seat for the rider.
- Where to Ride: Class 1 electric bikes, which have a max speed of 20 mph are allowed in bike lanes, roads, and most trails. The higher-powered Class 2 or Class 3 electric bikes are allowed on road and bike lanes, but not on most trails.
- Age Restrictions: You need to be over 14 to operate a Class 3 electric bike, but any age can operate lower-class electric bikes.
- Administrative Regulations: Electric bikes are not required to have a driver's license, insurance, or registration.
Electric Bike Infrastructure in Detroit
Detroit has made some progress in adding bike lanes to its roads, but the city's network of bike lanes is still considered to be limited compared to other cities. While there are some dedicated bike lanes in certain parts of the city, many of the existing bike lanes are not well-connected, making it difficult for cyclists to navigate the city.
However, there have been efforts to improve the bike infrastructure in Detroit, with plans for expanding the bike lane network and making it easier for cyclists to get around the city safely. The city is also promoting the use of bikes as a sustainable transportation option and encouraging residents to use them for commuting and recreation.
Detroit's Best Electric Bike Trails
Detroit does has a number of great bike trails that offer a range of experiences for riders. Some of the best include:
Dequindre Cut Greenway
Dequindre Cut Greenway is a former railway line turned into a popular urban bike trail. It features colorful murals and street art and provides a scenic route through some of Detroit's most vibrant neighborhoods.
Detroit Riverwalk
This 5.5-mile trail runs along the Detroit River and offers stunning views of both the city and the water. It's a popular spot for both cyclists and pedestrians.
Belle Isle Park
Belle Isle Park is a 982-acre park is located in the Detroit River and is a popular destination for cyclists. It features bike lanes, scenic views, and a number of attractions, including the Belle Isle Aquarium and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum.
Iron Belle Trail
Iron Belle Trail is a long-distance trail that runs from Belle Isle in Detroit to Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It offers a mix of urban and rural riding, with scenic views and opportunities to experience the best of both worlds.
Detroit's Best Electric Bike Shops
There are several bike shops in Detroit that are considered to be among the best. Some of them include:
The Hub of Detroit
The Hub of Detroit shop offers a wide selection of top e-bike brands, including road, mountain, and city bikes, as well as a full-service repair shop.
Wheelhouse Detroit
Wheelhouse Detroit offers bike rentals and guided tours, as well as a variety of bikes for sale, including road, city, and electric bikes.
Detroit Moped Works
Detroit Moped Works sells e-bikes, motorized bikes, and mopeds. Good and consistent sales on all of their inventory. They have a lot of DIY accessories that help you customize your e-bike or moped how you want.
The Garage Detroit
The Garage Detroit is a family owned cycling shop in Detroit. They carry e-scooters, mopeds, and e-bikes. A great community hub for cycling enthusiasts.
Renting an Electric Bike in Detroit
There are several options for renting electric bikes in Detroit. Some popular rental companies include:
MoGo Detroit
MoGo Detroit offers a variety of electric bikes for rent through their network of bike-sharing stations throughout Detroit.
Spin
Spin is a dockless e-scooter company that operates in Detroit. They offer e-scooters that can be rented through a smartphone app.
Local Bike Shops
Many local bike shops in Detroit also offer electric bike rentals. This can be a good option for those who want a more personalized experience or who want to try out a specific model before purchasing it.
Most of the cycling stores, especially places downtown or near the Riverwalk, offer electric bike rentals for the day or electric bike tours to explore the city of Detroit.
Tour Operators
There are also tour operators in Detroit that offer electric bike rentals as part of their guided tours of the city. This can be a great way to see the city while getting some exercise. RiDetroit offers e-bike tours in the Eastern Market.
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