Evanston, IL Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)

Electric Bicycles Operation.1.The provisions of this Code that apply to bicycles shall also apply to low-speed electric bicycles.2.Low-speed electric bicycles operated in the City shall comply with equipment and manufacturing requirements adopted by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission under 16 CFR 1512 and 625 ILCS 5/11-1517(b) and (c). No person shall knowingly tamper with or modify the speed capability or engagement threshold of a low-speed electric bicycle without replacing the label required under 625 ILCS 5/11-1517(c).3.A Class 2 low-speed electric bicycle shall operate so that the electric motor is disengaged or ceases to function when the brakes are applied. A Class 1 low-speed electric bicycle and a Class 3 low-speed electric bicycle shall operate so that the electric motor is disengaged when the rider stops pedaling.4.Sidewalks: A person may ride a bicycle or low speed electric bicycle upon a sidewalk only to the extent permitted by Illinois law.5.Class 3 Provisions:i.A person may operate a Class 3 low-speed electric bicycle only if he or she is sixteen (16) years of age or older. A person who is less than sixteen (16) years of age may ride as a passenger on a Class 3 low-speed electric bicycle that is designed to accommodate passengers.ii.Class 3 electric bicycles are prohibited from operating in a bike lane or a sidewalk.