Montgomery Parks permits some e-bikes on natural-surface trails

Montgomery Parks has revised its ban on e-bikes for the county’s natural-surface trails.

Previously, e-bikes had been limited to hard-surface trails. As of June 18, certain types of e-bikes will be allowed on natural-surface trails: Class 1 pedal-assist models, which provide motor assistance only while pedaling and stop assisting at 20 mph, and adaptive mountain bikes designed for riders with disabilities.

Class 2 throttle-controlled e-bikes and Class 3 models are still banned on natural trails; the latter are capable of motor-assisted speeds above 20 mph.

The idea, parks officials said, is to encourage biking in the county without risking trail erosion or public safety.

“E-bikes are an increasingly important way for residents to get around, enjoy the outdoors, and experience our park system,” Miti Figueredo, director of Montgomery Parks, said in a statement.

The Maryland-National Capital Park Police’s Montgomery County Division will enforce the new policy. Riders caught using prohibited e-bikes may be warned or cited, removed from the park, or have their e-bike confiscated.

The county reminds trail users to ride at controlled speeds, yield to pedestrians and equestrians, stay on designated trails, and avoid riding on wet or muddy surfaces to prevent damage.