E-Bikes on Trails and Pathways
Thank you to all who provided their input. On March 18, 2024 City Council approved a one-year pilot to allow e-bikes on City trails and paths.
Permitted vehicles will need to meet the Province’s definition of e-bikes, specifically a power-assisted bicycle with an electric motor that has:
- a handlebar for steering
- working pedals
- two or three wheels
- an electric motor
- braking systems
- a maximum assisted speed of 32 km/h
- a maximum weight of 120 kg (includes the weight of the bike and battery)
- an electric motor not exceeding 500 watts
- minimum wheel width of 35 mm and minimum diameter of 350 mm
- two independent braking systems that apply force to each wheel and is capable of bringing the e-bike, while being operated at a speed of 30 km/h, to a full stop within 9 metres, on a level asphalt surface, from the point at which the brakes were applied
Allowing expanded use provides for greater transportation options for residents. With concerns highlighting etiquette issues, the City will move forward with a public-education campaign on trail etiquette for all users.
What are E-bikes?
A power-assisted bicycle, also called an electric bicycle or e-bike, is a bicycle with an electric motor that meets a very specific set of criteria:
- a handlebar for steering
- working pedals
- two or three wheels
- an electric motor
- braking systems
When riding an e-bike, you must:
- be 16 or older
- wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet
- keep your e-bike in good working order
- follow the same rules of the road as other cyclists
To operate an e-bike in Ontario, the device must have:
- a maximum assisted speed of 32 km/h
- a maximum weight of 120 kg (includes the weight of the bike and battery)
- an electric motor not exceeding 500 watts
- no modifications to the motor to allow it to exceed a power output greater than 500 watts and an assisted speed greater than 32 km/h
- battery and electric motor securely fastened to the bicycle frame to prevent them from moving while the e-bike is operating
- all electrical terminals properly insulated
- minimum wheel width of 35 mm and minimum diameter of 350 mm
- two independent braking systems that applies force to each wheel and is capable of bringing the e-bike, while being operated at a speed of 30 km/h, to a full stop within 9 meters, on a level asphalt surface, from the point at which the brakes were applied
Removing the pedals makes the e-bike a motor vehicle, which requires a license, insurance, and registration to operate. It is also illegal to modify your e-bike's electric motor to make it more powerful or to increase the assisted speed of the bike.
Types of E-bikes
E-bikes generally fall into two categories, Pedal Assist E-bikes and Throttled E-bikes.
Pedal Assist E-bike
Pedal assist is an operating mode on e-bikes that engages the motor to deliver power to help the rider pedal easier and travel faster. The motor provides part of the pedaling power needed to push the bike forward. When the rider stops pedaling, power cuts off automatically.
Throttled E-bike
A throttle e-bike operates similarly to a motorcycle or scooter. When the throttle is engaged, the motor provides power and propels rider and bike forward without having the rider pedal. When the throttle is released, the motor stops delivering power.
E-scooters
E-scooters (vehicles with two wheels; a platform to stand on; a handlebar for steering; an electric motor; and a maximum speed of 24 km/h) are not considered e-bikes and are not permitted on any City roads or paths.
E-bike Advantages
E-bikes:
- Are eco-friendly as an environmentally-friendly mode of transport that reduces emissions.
- Are easy to use due to the assisted pedaling system, e-bikes are easier to ride.
- Are affordable, e-bikes are cheaper than cars and have reduced fuel and maintenance costs.
- Deliver health benefits, e-bikes require physical activity and can provide health benefits to riders.
E-bike Disadvantages
The usage of e-bikes on trails and pathways can create conflict between modes. Since e-bikes are larger, heavier and have the ability to move at a higher pace compared to a traditional bicycle, a challenge could arise when sharing the space with recreational trail users and pedestrians. Like traditional bicycles e-bikes are also relatively quiet and can surprise other users if proper trail etiquette is not used.
Learn More
Check out the FAQ on this page for more information on e-bike requirements, use in other municipalities, and distinctions between trails, sidewalks and paths..
Provide Your Insight
Thank you to all who participated in the survey. If you have any input on the pilot project you can email it to engineering@sarnia.ca, with the subject line 'E-bikes on Paths and Trails Input'.