Detroit, MI Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)
Key Facts
- Class 1 top speed
- 20 mph, pedal-assist only
- Class 2 top speed
- 20 mph with throttle, no pedaling
- Class 3 top speed
- 28 mph, pedal-assist only
- State code adopted locally
- Michigan Vehicle Code, City Code § 46-3-1
- Shared e-bike operating areas
- streets, bike lanes, sidewalks (§ 47-10-57)
Summary
Detroit's code adopts Michigan's three e-bike classes verbatim: Class 1 and 3 assist only while pedaling, capped at 20 and 28 mph; Class 2 has a throttle capped at 20 mph. Shared e-bikes follow separate city riding-area rules.
"class 1 electric bicycle" means an electric bicycle that is equipped with an electric motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that disengages or ceases to function when the electric bicycle reaches a speed of 20 miles per hour;(b)Class 2 electric bicycle. As used in this subsection, "class 2 electric bicycle" means an electric bicycle that is equipped with a motor that propels the electric bicycle to a speed of no more than 20 miles per hour, whether the rider is pedaling or not, and that disengages or ceases to function when the brakes are applied; or(c)Class 3 electric bicycle. As used in this subsection, "class 3 electric bicycle" means an electric bicycle that is equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that disengages or ceases to function when the electric bicycle reaches a speed of 28 miles per hour. Electric personal assistive mobility device means, as defined in Section 13c of the Michigan Vehicle Code, being MCL 257.13c, a self-balancing non-tandem two-wheeled device, designed to transport only one person at a time, having an electrical propulsion system with average power of 750 watts or one horsepower and a maximum speed on a paved level surface of not more than 15 miles per hour as exemplified by a Segway self-balancing device.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 4).
Full Breakdown
Detroit City Code § 47-10-1 defines Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes using the same wording as the Michigan Vehicle Code (MCL 257.13e): Class 1 and Class 3 motors assist only while pedaling, cutting off at 20 mph and 28 mph; Class 2 has a throttle capped at 20 mph regardless of pedaling. Detroit adopts the entire Michigan Vehicle Code by reference under § 46-3-1, so private e-bike riders follow the same statewide rules of the road. Shared (rental) e-bikes and scooters permitted through the city's mobility program face additional, Detroit-specific area-of-operation rules under § 47-10-57, streets, bicycle lanes, and sidewalks, with pedestrians given the right-of-way.
Violations & Fines
Riding a shared e-bike/scooter outside approved areas can get the device treated as an obstruction and impounded under § 47-10-6; owners face shared-mobility-permit suspension or revocation under § 47-10-4. General e-bike traffic violations follow Michigan Vehicle Code penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What e-bike classes does Detroit recognize?
Where can I ride my personal e-bike in Detroit?
Do these rules apply in Hamtramck or Highland Park?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Detroit
Compare Detroit to another location·View the Michigan mobility & curb rules overview
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E-Bike Classes in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Wayne County handle e-bike classes.