E-bikes in Downers Grove

October 06, 2023

Bicycling can be a fun, environmentally friendly way to get around Downers Grove. Today’s bikes come in all shapes and sizes from old fashioned pedal powered machines to electrified marvels of modern engineering.

photo of green electric bike at a park

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Here is some information about rules to be aware of and help keep you safe when riding an E-bike.


What is an E-bike?

An E-bike is an electric bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. They are classified into three classes:


Class 1 - low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour. 


Class 2 - low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour. 


Class 3 - low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 28 miles per hour.  


What are the rules for E-bikes?

The State of Illinois has rules that apply to E-bikes:


  • A driver’s license is not required to operate an E-bike, but you must be 16 or older to operate a Class 3 bicycle 
  • IL Secretary of State registration is not required 
  • Insurance is not required 
  • E-bikes may be operated on roadways and bicycle lanes.  
  • E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks


Are E-Motorcycles considered an E-bike?

No. Electric motorcycles are not classified as bicycles. They are motorized vehicles similar to combustion engine-powered motorcycles. A valid drivers’ license is required to operate an E-motorcycle, and they are subject to rules and regulations that apply to motorcycles.