Electric Bike Usage: Exploring Cape Cod Trail Accessibility

Electric bikes are allowed on most Cape Cod trails, including the Cape Cod National Seashore trails and fire roads, as well as the Rail Trail. However, there are some restrictions and regulations in place. For example, e-bikes with a throttle are not permitted on the Rail Trail, and e-bicyclists are expected to regulate their speed and take responsibility for the safe operation of their bikes.

E-bikes are allowed on Cape Cod National Seashore trails and fire roads

E-bikes are grouped into three classes. Class 1 e-bikes have a motor that only provides assistance when the rider is pedalling, and stops providing assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph. This means that e-bikes can be used on the same trails as traditional bicycles, with the exception of roads where only power assistance is used, which are reserved for motor vehicles.

The decision to allow e-bikes on Cape Cod National Seashore trails and fire roads was made in August 2019, following a public meeting and comments from the community. The primary concern is that e-bicyclists regulate their speed and take responsibility for the safe operation of their bikes, especially on trails used by dog walkers, pedestrians and family groups.

While e-bikes are allowed on Cape Cod National Seashore trails and fire roads, it is important to note that there may be specific trails or areas where they are not permitted. It is always a good idea to check with the local authorities or park rangers before riding your e-bike in a new area.

E-bikes are allowed on the Rail Trail

It's important to note that e-bikes are not allowed on all trails. They are permitted on Cape Cod National Seashore trails and fire roads where traditional bicycles are allowed, with the exception of Seashore Superintendent Brian Carlstrom, who has stated that bicyclists using only power assistance will be relegated to roads where motor vehicles are allowed. This is to ensure that e-bicyclists regulate their speed and take responsibility for the safe operation of their bikes.

When riding an e-bike on the Rail Trail, it's important to be mindful of other trail users, such as dog walkers, pedestrians, and family groups. While enforcement may be minimal, it's advisable to ride at a moderate speed and to switch to a traditional bicycle during busier times, such as the summer months.

Overall, e-bikes are a great way to explore the Rail Trail, offering a fun and efficient way to get around while still enjoying the outdoors. Just remember to follow the rules and be considerate of others, and you'll have a great experience.

E-bikes with a throttle are not allowed on the Rail Trail

E-bikes are grouped into one of three classes. Class 1 e-bikes have a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedalling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph. Bicyclists using only power assistance—that is, anyone riding an e-bike without pedalling—are relegated to roads where motor vehicles are allowed.

The Deputy Director of the National Park Service issued a policy on how e-bikes can be used within the National Park Service. This policy states that electric bicycles with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.) are allowed in national parks.

Although e-bikes with a throttle are not permitted on the Rail Trail, enforcement is reportedly non-existent. However, it is important to note that the Rail Trail is often used by dog walkers, pedestrians, and family groups, so it is advisable to ride at a moderate speed and be mindful of others.

E-bikes are allowed on Cape Cod National Seashore trails where traditional bicycles are allowed

E-bikes are allowed on all Cape Cod National Seashore trails and fire roads where traditional bicycles are allowed, with one exception. Bicyclists using only power assistance will be relegated to roads where motor vehicles are allowed. This is because e-bicyclists need to regulate their speed and take responsibility for the safe operation of their bikes.

E-bikes are grouped into one of three classes. Class 1 e-bikes have a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedalling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph.

E-bikes are allowed on the Rail Trail, but technically you can't ride an e-bike with a throttle. In practice, enforcement is nil.

E-bicyclists must regulate their speed and take responsibility for the safe operation of their bikes

Electric bikes are allowed on Cape Cod trails, but e-bicyclists must regulate their speed and take responsibility for the safe operation of their bikes. This means that e-bicyclists should not ride their bikes too fast, especially on trails that are often used by dog walkers, pedestrians and family groups.

E-bikes are allowed on all Cape Cod National Seashore trails and fire roads where traditional bicycles are permitted. However, there is one exception: those using only power assistance, i.e. riding an e-bike without pedalling, are relegated to roads where motor vehicles are allowed.

E-bikes are grouped into one of three classes. Class 1 e-bikes have a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedalling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph.

Frequently asked questions