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SALT LAKE CITY — The world is rapidly electrifying, which state outdoor recreation officials say is resulting into some complications on public lands.
It's now gotten to the point where the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation says there is a "pressing need" to clear the air over the "confusion" between electric bikes and electric motorcycles and what's allowed in the outdoors. They say there's been an uptick in people illegally riding e-motorcycles on pathways where e-bikes are allowed.
Utah code outlines three classes of e-bikes, as well as what is classified as an e-motorcycle. These definitions, the agency points out, are based on different speeds and weights.
E-motorcycles, which are heavier and faster than e-bikes, are banned from any trails where motor vehicles aren't allowed. In addition, e-motorcycle riders are required to wear certified helmets and complete an off-highway vehicle education course before riding on public lands in the state because Utah also considers e-motorcycles to be OHVs.
Utah Division of Motor Vehicles director Monte Roberts adds that the vehicles must also be registered to be used on public lands and roads.
E-bikes, on the other hand, are often lighter, slower and don't need to be registered. Federal, state, county and municipal agencies may have different rules and regulations on what is acceptable, though.
E-bikes are typically allowed on most trails where bikes are permitted, though there are some restrictions based on the three e-bike classes, defined by throttle and speed capabilities. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, for example, updated its e-bike rule on wildlife management land last year to ban Class II and Class III bikes, citing "notable habitat damage" caused by the bikes.
Chase Pili, the division's OHV program manager, said it's up to e-bike and e-motorcycle riders to know what's allowed on public lands before riding on them.
"We're thrilled about the growth in electric-powered recreation," he said in a statement Thursday. "While we encourage everyone to enjoy the thrill of outdoor recreation, our goal is always on safety and education, and riders must recognize the rules and regulations to ensure safety while on the trails."
The division is working with the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles, as well as the biking recreation nonprofit PeopleforBikes and the St. George Police Department to help state recreation officials spread the word.
St. George Police Sgt. Jeremy Needles said the types of vehicles may look similar, but the difference is ultimately a public safety issue.
"By clearly defining these distinctions and guidelines and providing the necessary educational opportunities, we aim to foster a safer, more enjoyable experience for all Utahns," he said.
