Electric Bike Safety Tips: E-Bike Etiquette for Colorado Springs

Why Electric Bike Safety and Etiquette Matter in Colorado Springs

E-bikes are changing the way we get around in Colorado Springs—from scenic rides through Garden of the Gods to everyday urban commutes. But with more speed and accessibility comes more responsibility. Whether you're new to e-bikes or a seasoned rider, practicing good etiquette and following local safety rules keeps you and others safe on the trails and streets. This guide combines electric bike safety tips and best practices for e-bike etiquette tailored to Colorado Springs’ unique trail systems and city roads.

Bike in Bike Lane

Trail Etiquette: Sharing Space in Parks and Open Spaces

Colorado Springs is home to some of the most beautiful riding environments in the country. With parks like Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon, and Palmer Park, it's important to ride respectfully alongside hikers, families, and even horses.

Tips for Trail Riding:

• Yield properly: Bicycles yield to pedestrians and horses. Always give right of way to uphill riders.

• Signal when passing: Use a bell or say “On your left!” before overtaking walkers or slower cyclists.

• Pass safely: Keep right except to pass. Only pass when you can give at least 3 feet of space.

• Slow down in busy areas: Ride at a controlled pace—20 mph is the city trail speed limit, but slower is better when trails are crowded.

• Respect multi-use zones: Stick to bike-allowed trails. Don’t ride in pedestrian-only areas or off-trail.

Garden of the Gods, for example, allows bikes (and e-bikes) on designated roads and bike-friendly areas but not on hiking-only trails. When in doubt, walk your bike or check local signs.

Road Riding Tips: Navigating City Streets and Traffic

When riding on the road, your e-bike is treated like a bicycle under Colorado law. That means you have both the rights and responsibilities of any road user.

Road Safety Tips:

• Ride with traffic: Always go in the same direction as vehicles and obey all traffic signals and stop signs.

• Use bike lanes: Stick to marked lanes where available. If none exist, ride as far right as is safe.

• Take the lane when needed: On narrow streets, it's okay (and often safer) to ride in the center of the lane.

• Be predictable: Signal your turns and lane changes. Avoid weaving in and out of parked cars.

• Watch for hazards: Keep an eye out for potholes, debris, and car doors opening.

Drivers in Colorado Springs are still getting used to seeing more e-bikes on the road, so being visible and predictable is key.

Gear and Visibility: What You Need to Stay Safe

Being prepared isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Here’s what you should have on every ride:

Safety Gear Checklist:

• Helmet: Required for riders under 18 on Class 3 e-bikes, and strongly recommended for everyone.

• Lights & reflectors: A white front light and red rear light are essential for low-light conditions.

• Bright or reflective clothing: Boost your visibility, especially at dawn or dusk.

• Bell or horn: Required for trail riding in Colorado Springs.

• Gloves and sunglasses: For protection and comfort on long or bumpy rides.

• Tire repair kit & water: Always a good idea for longer trips.

Before heading out, check your brakes, tires, battery level, and lights. A well-maintained e-bike is a safe e-bike.

Managing Speed and Passing Safely

E-bikes go faster than traditional bikes, which means extra care is needed around others.

Speed and Passing Tips:

• Ride at an appropriate speed: Just because you can go 20+ mph doesn’t mean you always should.

• Use lower assist levels in crowded areas: This gives you more control and helps with sudden stops.

• Give space when passing: Always pass on the left and give at least 3 feet of clearance.

• Announce before passing: Let others know you’re coming to avoid startling them.

• Stay alert downhill: E-bikes pick up speed quickly—slow down early when approaching corners or crowded zones.

If someone is passing you, hold your line and let them go. And when approaching blind corners or trail crossings, slow down and ride defensively.

Local Rules & Best Practices in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs has made big moves to welcome e-bikes while maintaining trail safety and access for all.

Know Your Class:

• Class 1 (pedal assist, up to 20 mph): Allowed on certain city and urban trails.

• Class 2 (throttle + pedal assist, up to 20 mph): Restricted from most city trails.

• Class 3 (pedal assist, up to 28 mph): Allowed on roads and in bike lanes only. Helmet required for riders under 18.

Check trailhead signage to confirm e-bike access. Only Class 1 e-bikes are currently allowed on select trails under a phased rollout.

Where You Can Ride:

• Garden of the Gods: Allowed on roadways and certain bike-designated areas. No riding on pedestrian-only paths.

• State Parks & Open Spaces: Access is expanding! Colorado Springs is working to include more Class 1 e-bike access across parks and open space trails as part of a broader sustainability and accessibility effort.

Stay informed on trail status at coloradosprings.gov. New e-bike access areas are being added as part of pilot programs focused on rider education and trail preservation.

Ride Smart, Ride Friendly

Whether you're a local or a visitor exploring Colorado Springs by e-bike, remember that safety and respect go hand in hand. By following the rules, being courteous to others, and riding with awareness, you help build a welcoming biking culture for everyone.

Need gear? Want to rent an e-bike for Garden of the Gods? Stop by Manitou E-Bike Co! We’re your local experts for e-bike safety, rentals, trail guidance, and maintenance in Colorado Springs. Let us help you ride smarter and explore farther.