Electric bikes approved for use on city's pathways
A bicyclist rides along the path in Riverside Park. (Heidi Desch/Whitefish Pilot)
Electric bikes will soon be allowed on the city’s shared-use pathways.
City Council June 19 approved the change to allow for type 1 and type 2 electric bikes on the paths in a reasonable and prudent manner with a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour.
“This is to address the use of these bikes on our paths because we expect to see an increase in use,” Parks and Recreation Director Maria Butts said.
The city’s bicycle and pedestrian master plan adopted in January recommended the use of the bikes on shared-use paths and bicycle lanes. The city’s bicycle and pedestrian path advisory committee agreed and determined it is reasonable for the bikes to operate on paths.
Electric bikes are sorted into different classifications.
Type 1 includes bicycles equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches 20 miles per hour.
Type 2 includes bicycles equipped with a motor that may be used to exclusively propel the cycle and is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
Council Jen Frandsen expressed some concern about allowing bicycles to go 20 miles per hour on a path.
“I’m slow and I can ride 20 miles per hour on a regular bike,” Councilor Andy Feury said. “On a mixed-use path it’s OK.”