Electric bikes and electric motorcycles are becoming common on Michigan streets, bike routes and trails, but the label on the sales page does not always match the legal classification. After a serious crash, that classification can affect where the device could legally be operated, what equipment or registration rules apply, and which insurance questions need to be investigated.

What counts as an electric bicycle in Michigan?

Michigan Vehicle Code section 257.13e defines an electric bicycle as a device with a seat or saddle, fully operable pedals and an electric motor of no more than 750 watts. The law then divides qualifying e-bikes into three classes. Class 1 provides pedal assistance up to 20 mph. Class 2 can propel the bicycle without pedaling up to 20 mph. Class 3 provides pedal assistance up to 28 mph.

A permanent class label is part of Michigan’s e-bike framework, and changing the motor-powered speed capability or motor engagement can cause a device to stop fitting the class shown on the original label.

When does an “e-bike” become an e-moto?

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources now gives riders a practical warning about high-powered electric two-wheelers. DNR says an e-moto is not an e-bike when it exceeds 750 watts, can exceed 28 mph under motor assist, functions primarily as a throttle-powered vehicle above 20 mph, or lacks fully operable pedals. DNR states that these machines are motor vehicles such as electric mopeds, motorcycles or dirt bikes and must follow the applicable motor-vehicle and/or ORV rules.

That distinction matters because a fast throttle-driven machine may look bicycle-like but legally operate under a very different set of rules. After a collision, investigators should document the make, model, motor wattage, controller settings, maximum assisted speed, pedal configuration, VIN or serial number, software settings and any post-purchase modifications.

Where can Michigan e-bikes be ridden?

Michigan generally subjects e-bike riders to bicycle rules unless a specific provision says otherwise. DNR currently allows Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes on DNR-managed roads where traditional bicycles may be ridden. On state-managed trails, the rules are narrower: Class 1 access is broader, Class 2 trail use may require a mobility permit in covered areas, and Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on state-managed trails. Local governments and other land managers can have additional rules, so the exact location should be checked.

What if a car hits an e-bike rider?

A collision involving a qualifying e-bike and a motor vehicle can raise Michigan no-fault questions because the rider may be a person injured while not occupying a motor vehicle. Michigan’s no-fault priority rules are fact-specific, and the source of PIP benefits should be determined from the actual insurance and household facts rather than assumed from the type of bike alone.

A separate negligence claim may also need to address driver fault, visibility, lane position, speed, traffic controls, lighting and the statutory tort rules that apply to the injuries. Comparative fault can become an issue if either side argues that the e-bike or e-moto was being operated unlawfully.

Evidence to preserve after an e-bike or e-moto crash

Do not treat the machine as ordinary damaged property until the legal team has considered whether its condition matters. Preserve photographs, the battery and controller information, app screenshots, firmware or speed settings, receipts, product specifications, helmet or protective gear, GPS ride data, surveillance video, witness information and the police report. If a vehicle struck the rider, also preserve the vehicle’s event data and any available dashcam footage.

Official sources: Michigan Vehicle Code — MCL 257.13e · MCL 257.662a · Michigan DNR — E-bikes and e-motos.

Request a Michigan e-bike or e-moto accident case review if a collision caused serious injuries.