Fort Collins, CO Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)

The Fort Collins Traffic Code defines an "electrical assisted bicycle" in Section 2002(12) as a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with fully operable pedals and a motor not exceeding 750 watts, split into three classes: Class 1 assists only while pedaling and cuts off at 20 mph; Class 2 assists whether or not the rider pedals but also cuts off at 20 mph; Class 3 assists only while pedaling and cuts off at 28 mph. Section 2106(3), in Part 21 (Operation of Bicycles, Electric Assisted Bicycles and Other Human-Powered Vehicles), governs where those classes may run their motors on non-roadway facilities: "Riders of Class 1 and Class 2 electrical assisted bicycles may use paved bike or pedestrian paths and paved recreational trails except where prohibited by the City Code or posted signs.

" Section 2101(2) separately bars all riders, regardless of class, from riding a Class 3 e-bike or an electric scooter on a bike or pedestrian path or recreational trail unless the City Code authorizes it, meaning a Class 3 rider generally has to pedal without power assist on those facilities. Section 2101(3) layers on age and helmet rules specific to Class 3 machines: a person under 16 cannot ride one on a street or highway except as a passenger on a model built for passengers, and anyone under 18 riding or operating a Class 3 bike must wear a CPSC- or ASTM-compliant helmet, secured with a chin strap, whenever the bike is in motion.

On roadways, Section 2101(1) grants electrical assisted bicycle riders the same rights and duties as drivers of vehicles under the Traffic Code, aside from provisions that by their nature cannot apply, and folds in Colorado State University's own bicycle rules for riders on the CSU campus. Sidewalk and crosswalk behavior for all classes runs through Section 2106(2), which requires yielding to pedestrians and an audible signal before passing, and requires dismounting before entering a crosswalk where signs or ordinance require it.