Ankeny, IA Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)

Ankeny Code of Ordinances § 76.02 defines three distinct electric classes. A "low-speed electric bicycle" has a saddle, up to four wheels, fully operable pedals, and an electric motor capped at a top speed of 28 mph; state law treats it as a bicycle rather than a motor vehicle. An "e-moto or electric motorcycle" instead has a motor with peak power between 3kW and 20kW, travels on no more than three wheels, and is capable of exceeding 39 mph on level ground without pedaling; it does not need pedals at all.

A "motorized bicycle" sits in between: a saddle-equipped, up to three-wheel motor vehicle that cannot exceed 39 mph unassisted, distinguished from the low-speed electric bicycle mainly by lacking operable pedals. Where each class may ride is set by § 76.08. Low-speed electric bicycles, along with plain bicycles, electric scooters and OPDMDs, may use public sidewalks in residential districts in a careful and prudent manner, may use any bicycle path, and may ride bicycle lanes or the roadway itself. E-motos, electric motorcycles and motorized bicycles are expressly barred from sidewalks, bicycle paths and City parks or green spaces under § 76.08(3)(F); they may only operate on streets and roadways like other motor vehicles, and § 76.04 further requires their riders to hold a driver's license or permit and to register, title and insure the vehicle under Iowa Code Chapter 321, none of which applies to a low-speed electric bicycle or plain bicycle rider.