Electric Bikes On Pennsylvania Game Lands: What's The Law?

E-bikes are becoming increasingly popular with outdoor enthusiasts, but are they legal on Pennsylvania state game lands? In this article, we will explore the current regulations surrounding the use of e-bikes on state-owned land in Pennsylvania and discuss the impact of these rules on outdoor enthusiasts.

E-bikes are not permitted on state game lands

In January 2020, the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners gave preliminary approval for allowing Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on game lands for those hunting, trapping and fishing. However, the motion was ultimately rejected.

Class 1 e-bikes are permitted for travel on lands owned by the DCNR (Department of Conservation and Natural Resources). A Class 1 e-bike is defined as weighing no more than 75 lbs.

Bicycles are 100% legal on state game lands as long as you are engaged in hunting, trapping or fishing.

Class 1 e-bikes are allowed on DCNR-owned land

E-bikes are not permitted on Pennsylvania state game lands. However, Class 1 e-bikes are allowed on lands owned by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR).

Class 1 e-bikes are defined as having a weight not exceeding 75 lbs. The Pennsylvania Game Commission does not currently permit e-bikes on state game lands, unless used by individuals with mobility disabilities. In 2020, the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners gave preliminary approval for allowing Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on game lands for those hunting, trapping and fishing. However, the motion was rejected by a vote of 5-3.

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources permits Class 1 e-bikes on approved mountain bike trails on property managed by the DCNR. This means that outdoor enthusiasts can use Class 1 e-bikes on certain trails, but they should check whether the trail is approved for e-bike use before setting off.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission rejected a motion to allow Class 1 and 2 e-bikes in 2020

E-bikes are not permitted on Pennsylvania state game lands. In 2020, the Pennsylvania Game Commission rejected a motion to allow Class 1 and 2 e-bikes on state game lands by a vote of 5-3. The motion would have allowed the use of e-bikes in the same manner as traditional bicycles.

Class 1 e-bikes are defined as two-wheeled bicycles with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of 750 watts (1 horsepower) or less that provides assistance only when the rider is actively pedalling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 mph. Class 2 e-bikes are similar, but with a throttle-actuated motor.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission's website states that "under current regulation, it is unlawful to use or operate any type of e-bike on State game lands, unless used by individuals with mobility disabilities."

Despite the rejection of the motion, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources permits Class 1 e-bikes on approved mountain bike trails on property managed by the DCNR. Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on trails or roads.

E-bikes are allowed on approved mountain bike trails

E-bikes are not permitted on state game lands at any time of the year, unless used by individuals with mobility disabilities. The Pennsylvania Game Commission board rejected a motion in 2020 which would have allowed Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles by a vote of 5-3. However, in January 2020, the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners gave preliminary approval for allowing Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on game lands for those hunting, trapping and fishing.

Bicycles are 100% legal on state game lands as long as you are engaged in hunting.

E-bikes are allowed for those with mobility disabilities

E-bikes are not permitted on Pennsylvania state game lands at any time of year. However, the Pennsylvania Game Commission's website states that "under current regulation, it is unlawful to use or operate any type of e-bike on State game lands, unless used by individuals with mobility disabilities".

The Pennsylvania Game Commission board rejected a motion in 2020 which would have allowed Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles by a vote of 5-3. However, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources permits Class 1 e-bikes on approved mountain bike trails on property managed by DCNR. A Class 1 e-bike is defined as weighing no more than 75 lbs.

In January 2020, the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners gave preliminary approval for allowing Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on game lands for those hunting, trapping and fishing. Bicycles are 100% legal on state game lands as long as you are engaged in hunting.

E-bikes help outdoor enthusiasts on multiple fronts, from casual trail riding to those who want to take it into the woods.

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