06/03/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18GnrVXJAH/
🚴☀️ SCHOOL'S OUT – RIDE SAFE, RIDE SMART! ☀️🚴
As we celebrate National E-Bike Day on May 30 and World Bicycle Day today, June 3, the Mishawaka Police Department encourages everyone to get outside and enjoy the many Mishawaka Parks, trails, sidewalks, neighborhoods, and roadways throughout our community this summer.
Whether you're riding a traditional bicycle, an e-bike, or exploring Mishawaka's beautiful Riverwalk and trail system, safety starts with understanding the laws and riding responsibly.
🚲 Know the Difference: Bicycle, E-Bike, or E-Moto?
Indiana law recognizes three classes of electric bicycles:
✅ Class 1 E-Bike
• Pedal assist only
• No throttle
• Maximum assisted speed of 20 mph
✅ Class 2 E-Bike
• Pedal assist and throttle-equipped
• Can operate without pedaling
• Maximum assisted speed of 20 mph
✅ Class 3 E-Bike
• Pedal assist only
• No throttle
• Maximum assisted speed of 28 mph
All legal e-bikes must:
✔ Have operable pedals
✔ Have a motor rated at 750 watts or less
✔ Display a manufacturer's label showing class, top assisted speed, and motor wattage
⚠️ Not Every Electric Two-Wheel Vehicle is an E-Bike
If a vehicle does not meet Indiana's legal definition of an e-bike, it may be considered a motor vehicle or motorcycle.
Many electric motorcycles (commonly called "E-Motos") can exceed 50 mph and often have motors producing several thousand watts of power. These vehicles generally require:
• Driver's license
• Registration
• Insurance
A simple rule of thumb:
👉 No pedals = likely a motorcycle
👉 Pedals + meets Indiana e-bike requirements = e-bike
🛑 Ride Responsibly & Respectfully
• Wear a helmet.
• Obey traffic signs and signals.
• Yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and trails.
• Keep speeds reasonable around others.
• Stay alert and avoid distractions.
• Use lights and reflective gear when riding at night.
• Respect other trail and roadway users.
👨👩👧👦 Parents: Before purchasing an electric bike or electric motorcycle for your child, take time to understand Indiana law and ensure the vehicle is legal for where it will be operated.
Our goal is education, safety, and keeping everyone enjoying the outdoors responsibly this summer. Together, we can make Mishawaka streets, sidewalks, and trails safe and enjoyable for all.
🚴 Enjoy the ride.
🤝 Respect others.
⚖️ Know the law.
🛡️ Stay safe.
