Electronic Powered Bicycles on Public Lands

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20240
http://www.blm.gov

July 1, 2015

In Reply Refer To:

8340 (250) P

EMS TRANSMISSION 07/07/2015

Information Bulletin No. 2015-060

To:                  All Field Officials

From:               Acting Assistant Director, Resources and Planning

Subject:           Electronic Powered Bicycles on Public Lands

An electronic bicycle, also known as an e-bike, is a bicycle with an integrated electric motor.  The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) classifies e-bikes as motorized vehicles, as defined at 43 CFR 8340.5 “(a) Off-road vehicle means any motorized vehicle capable of, or designed for, travel on or immediately over land, water, or other natural terrain, excluding: (1) any non-amphibious registered motorboat; (2) any military, fire, emergency, or law enforcement vehicle while being used for emergency purposes; (3) any vehicle whose use is expressly authorized by the authorized officer, or otherwise officially approved; (4) vehicles in official use; and (5) any combat or combat support vehicle when used in times of national defense emergencies.”

There is a great variety of e-bikes available and some can be used for mountain biking.  Public interest in the use of e-bikes on Federal public lands is rising.  As a transportation and recreation option, e-bikes represent an opportunity to reduce emissions, as they also appeal to a growing demographic with physical limitations to conventional bicycling.  These factors contribute to a corresponding increase in interest and utilization on public lands. The BLM manages e-bikes similar to the U.S. Forest Service (FS).  The FS manages e-bikes as a motor vehicle per their Travel Management Rule. 

For more information or if you have questions about e-bikes, please contact Dennis Byrd., Outdoor Recreation Planner, Division of Recreation and Visitor Services (WO-250), at 202-912-7252 or by email at:  DByrd@blm.gov.

Signed by:                                                       Authenticated by:

Michael H. Tupper                                          Robert M. Williams

Deputy Assistant Director                              Division of IRM Governance,WO-860

Resources and Planning