Electric Bikes, Electric Motorcycles and Other Small Electric Vehicles
As electric-powered transportation continues to grow in popularity, it's important to understand the differences between electric bikes, electric motorcycles, dirt bikes, scooters and other small electric vehicles. While they may look similar, different vehicles are subject to different laws and may only be operated in certain locations.
The City of Centennial is working with the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office, local parks and recreation districts, and other community partners to educate riders about safe and legal operation of these vehicles. Proposed updates to the Centennial Municipal Code are intended to provide clear, consistent regulations that improve safety for everyone using our streets, sidewalks, parks and trails.
Know the Difference
Electric Bikes (E-Bikes)
Under Colorado law, an e-bike:
- Has fully operable pedals
- Has an electric motor of 750 watts or less
- Provides motor assistance up to 20 mph (Class 1 and Class 2) or 28 mph (Class 3)
Electric Motorcycles and Electric Dirt Bikes
These vehicles are not considered e-bikes under Colorado law. They generally:
- Do not have functional pedals
- Have motors greater than 750 watts
- Can exceed 30 mph
- Are considered motorcycles or off-highway vehicles
Because of these differences, electric motorcycles and dirt bikes are subject to registration, licensing and insurance requirements when operated on public roadways.
Where Can You Ride
Class 1 and Class 2 E-Bikes
Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are generally permitted where traditional bicycles are allowed, including many sidewalks, trails and shared-use paths, unless otherwise posted.
Class 3 E-Bikes
Under the proposed ordinance, Class 3 e-bikes would not be allowed on most shared-use paths, sidewalks and park trails unless the path is adjacent to a roadway or signage specifically allows their use. They may continue to operate on public roadways and designated on-street bike lanes.
Electric Motorcycles, Dirt Bikes and Other High-Performance Electric Vehicles
These vehicles are prohibited on City-managed sidewalks, trails, parks and other public property. They may only be operated on public streets if they meet all applicable Colorado registration, licensing, insurance and equipment requirements. Off-highway vehicles are not permitted on City streets or City-managed property.
Ride Responsibly
No matter what you ride:
- Know the rules before heading out
- Ride only where your vehicle is allowed
- Obey traffic signs and signals
- Slow down around pedestrians and at intersections
- Be courteous to others using trails and sidewalks
- Wear appropriate safety equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my vehicle is an e-bike?
A legal e-bike must have fully operable pedals and an electric motor rated at 750 watts or less. If your vehicle exceeds 750 watts, can be easily modified to exceed legal limits, or functions like a motorcycle or dirt bike, it is not considered an e-bike under Colorado law.
What if my vehicle has pedals?
Some high-powered electric motorcycles are manufactured with pedals that are not functional or are intended to make the vehicle appear to be an e-bike. Under the proposed ordinance, adding pedals does not change how the vehicle is classified if it otherwise meets the definition of an electric motorcycle or off-highway vehicle.
Why is the City updating these regulations?
The proposed ordinance is intended to improve public safety by creating clear, enforceable regulations and aligning rules across City-managed property and participating parks and recreation districts. The effort also includes public education and coordinated enforcement.
Additional Resources
Learn more about electric bike safety, Colorado laws and traffic safety:
If you have questions about operating an electric vehicle in Centennial, contact the City's Citizen Response Center at 303-325-8000.