Electric bike usage in Phoenix is growing in popularity as more people are turning to e-bikes as a sustainable mode of transportation. The city of Phoenix has been working to improve infrastructure for e-bikes with the expansion of bike lanes and trails, making it easier for people to use e-bikes for commuting and recreation.
Our e-bike guide to Phoenix lays out the city's best trails, shops, infrastructure, and the current e-bike regulations in the city.
Phoenix's Best Electric Bike Trails
Phoenix, Arizona offers a great variety of scenic and challenging bike trails for riders of all skill levels. Here are some of the best electric bike trails in Phoenix:
Papago Park
Located in the heart of Phoenix, Papago Park offers several miles of easy-to-moderate bike trails. The trails wind through the desert landscape and offer great views of the red rock formations and the city skyline.
South Mountain Park
South Mountain Park boasts over 16,000 acres of desert wilderness and more than 50 miles of bike trails. The trails range from easy to difficult, and offer stunning views of the mountains and the city below.
Dreamy Draw Recreation Area
Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is located in the foothills of the Phoenix Mountains and offers several miles of trails that wind through the desert landscape. The trails range from easy to moderate and offer great views of the city and the mountains.
Phoenix's Electric Bike Infrastructure
The city of Phoenix has been making significant strides to accommodate the growth and usage of electric bikes. E-bikes are legalized on the city's public streets and are allowed to ride on any bike lane and bike path.
In addition to legalizing e-bikes on public streets, the city of Phoenix is also working on improving the bicycle infrastructure. The city is adding protected bicycle infrastructure, which includes vertical markers like plastic posts or small bumps. This move aims to ensure the safety of all cyclists, including e-bike users.
Phoenix Electric Bike Tours
Renting an Electric Bike in Phoenix
Phoenix is a large sprawling city with an eclectic mix of interesting sites and geography. There are some great e-bike guided tours throughout the city. Scottsdale is one of the nicest parts of the city, and an e-bike guided tour is a fun way to spend an afternoon. Tempe, just south of Scottsdale is another place you can see on an e-bike tour. The Sonoran desert envelopes the Phoenix area and is a natural marvel that is perfect for electric biking.
Phoenix's Best Electric Bike Shops
Here are some of the best electric bike shops in Phoenix:
Bicycle Depot of Arizona
Bicycle Depot of Arizona carries a variety of electric bikes from top brands such as Trek, Felt, and Kalkhoff. They also offer test rides, and repair services.
Archer's Bikes
Archer's Bikes has multiple locations. It specializes in electric bikes and offers a wide variety of models from top brands like Rad Power Bikes, Easy Motion, and Haibike. They also offer rental e-bikes, repairs, and maintenance services.
Bike Barn
Bike Barn is a popular shop in the Scottsdale area that has one of the best selections in the city.
Please keep in mind that these are only some of the best electric bike shops in Phoenix, and that there may be other great options available.
Phoenix E-bike Rules and Regulations
- Safety Equipment: E-bikes are also required to have a working brake system and a bell or other audible signal. Helmets are recommended but not required.
- Road Rules: Electric bikes have similar rules of the road as traditional bikes. While traditional bicycles may be used on sidewalks, electric bicycles are prohibited from sidewalk spaces. Electric bicycles may be operated in bike lanes.
- Bike Specifications: According to Arizona state law, e-bikes must have fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. Electric bikes are classified as Class 1, 2, or 3. Class 1 is pedal assist with max speed of 20 mph. Class 2 is throttle assist with max speed of 20 mph. Class 3 is pedal assist with max speed of 28 mph.
- Where to Ride: Electric bikes are fine to ride on bike paths and trails but there are local exceptions so it is important to look up specific trails.
- Age Restrictions: There is no age requirement for e-bike use.
- Administrative Regulations: You do not need a license, registration, or insurance to operate an e-bike.
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