peopleforbikes Alaska’s Electric Bicycle Law Instructions

: June 9, 2024
: peopleforbikes

Table of Contents

ALASKA’S ELECTRIC BICYCLE LAW FOR THE ROAD
eMTB GUIDELINES
ALASKA’S ELECTRIC BICYCLE LAW FOR TRAILS
GREAT eMTB RIDES IN ALASKA
References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

ALASKA’S ELECTRIC BICYCLE LAW

ALASKA’S ELECTRIC BICYCLE LAW FOR THE ROAD

In Alaska, an electric bicycle is defined as a “motor-driven cycle.” A motor-driven cycle, electric bicycles are not subject to the same rules of the road as traditional bicycles.
Electric bicycle riders must carry an operator’s license. Electric bicycles are not subject to registration or insurance requirements.
Helmets are not required. There is a 14 year age minimum for electric bicycle use. Electric bicycles are not allowed on sidewalks or bike paths.
The following Alaska laws are referenced: Alaska Stat. § 28.90.990.

eMTB GUIDELINES

On federal, state, country and local trails, electric mountain bike (eMTB) access varies significantly.
Generally, any natural surface trail that is designated as open to both motorized and non-motorized uses is also open to eMTBs.
eMTBs may not be allowed on trails managed for non-motorized activities.
Do not ride your eMTB in areas where the local rules are unclear. Ride legally and only on authroized trails to show that mountain bikers are responsible trail users.
When in doubt, ask your local land manager about access to specific trails. Local land rules change frequently.

CHECK OUT

A map of great eMTB rides at peopleforbikes.org/emtb
eMTB “Adventures” at peopleforbikes.org/electric-bikes

ALASKA’S ELECTRIC BICYCLE LAW FOR TRAILS

LOCAL: Consult your local land management agency.
STATE: In Alaska State Parks, bicycles of all kinds are considered vehicles in park regulations. In some parks, bicycles are called out specifically if, where, and when they are allowed on trails, and eMTBs would be as well. Contact the agency or local park rangers for more information. PeopleForBikes is monitoring this policy and will update this document as needed.
FEDERAL: On federal lands, eMTBs are considered motorized vehicles and have access to motorized trails. The National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Forest Service, and Bureau of Land Management manage 60% of Alaska’s land, with most recreation on Forest Service lands. Contact the U.S. Forest Service Alaska Regional Office for more information.

GREAT eMTB RIDES IN ALASKA

» White Mountains Winter Tour
Fairbanks | 100 miles

» Yakutat Area Trails
Dover | 62 miles

With an electric bicycle, bicyclists can ride more often, farther, and for more trips.
Electric bicycles are designed to be as safe as traditional bicycles, do not compromise consumer safety, and benefit bicyclists who may be discouraged from riding a traditional bicycle due to limited physical fitness, age, disability or convenience.
In many states, electric bicycles are regulated under antiquated laws primarily aimed at combustion engine vehicles such as mopeds or scooters. People For Bikes is clarifying state laws governing the use of electric bicycles in the U.S. Every state’s law is different, but the objective is to ensure that low-speed electric bicycles are regulated similarly to traditional, human-powered bicycles.

Learn more at PeopleForBikes.org/electric-bikes