A proposal to expand the operation of e-bikes on non-motorized trails at state managed parks could go into effect as early as spring.
Under current Michigan law, Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on natural surface trails. However, with the new Michigan Deparment of Natural Resources Land Use Proposal, Class 1 e-bikes, which are pedal operated, would be allowed.
DNR Parks and Recreation regulatory unit manager Nicole Hunt explains why the land use change was presented.
“We’re going to try out the class one, adding it so they can operate on our natural surface trails, and then recognizing that there may be individuals who maybe have recreated in the past or want to try to recreate but haven’t been able to, to be able to go and use those natural surface trails with the permission through a use permit issued by the department,” Hunt said.
The proposal will go into effect if the director of DNR’s Park and Rec Department signs off. A public survey about the proposed land use change is open through March 31.
