Estes Park police issue safety guidance for e-bikes, scooters and other micromobility devices

The Town of Estes Park and Police Department have issued new safety guidance for electric bikes, scooters, one-wheels, electric skateboards and other micromobility devices, saying the devices are appearing more often on local streets, trails and sidewalks.

Police Chief Ian Stewart said the public should familiarize itself with the laws and responsibilities associated with operating the devices. The department said the devices can travel fast and quietly and can cause serious injury if used unsafely or illegally.

The town said micromobility devices are covered by Estes Park Municipal Code Chapter 9.18 and include small human- or electric-powered transportation devices designed to carry one person. The release also outlined Colorado’s three e-bike classes. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes allow motor assistance up to 20 mph, while Class 3 e-bikes allow pedal assist up to 28 mph and require a speedometer. Riders under 16 may not operate a Class 3 e-bike except as a passenger, and riders under 18 must wear a helmet.

According to the release, riders must obey traffic signals and signs, ride with traffic, use designated bike lanes, shoulders and paths when available, control their speed and avoid riding impaired or distracted. Phones and headphones are prohibited. Sidewalk riding is limited to places where no bicycle lane is available and where it is not otherwise restricted, and riders on sidewalks must travel at or below 6 mph and yield to pedestrians. Shared-use paths have a 15 mph limit, and riders may not operate devices in several pedestrian-focused downtown areas.

The town also warned parents and guardians about children and teenagers riding electric devices on public streets. It said parents should set rules, review traffic laws, ensure the device is appropriate for the rider’s age and skill level, and require helmet use on every ride. The Police Department said it will enforce micromobility regulations and issue citations when necessary.

The next Coffee and Tea with the PD will focus on the topic and is scheduled for Thursday, June 4 at 4 p.m. at Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Ave., with Commander Jeremiah Polucha. The town said more information is available from the police department or on its micromobility safety page.