E-Bikes Florida: Where Can I Ride?
Known as The Sunshine State, Florida offers beautiful weather and diverse scenery for outdoor adventurers. From the beaches to the marshes, with unique wildlife from manatees to exotic birds, there’s so much to see.
Here’s everything you need to know about riding your e-bike in Florida, from the best trails to regulations and more.
What Are The Best E-Bike Trails And Parks In Florida?
Are There E-Bike Incentive Programs In Florida?
Where Can I Find Magnum Bikes In Florida?
What Are The Best E-Bike Trails And Parks In Florida?
Florida is a relatively flat state, though it’s not completely flat! Still, this makes many of Florida’s best e-bike trails easy rides for riders of all skill levels.
So get out and see this beautiful state on your e-bike!
Shark Valley Tram Road in Everglades National Park
A glimpse of the beautiful Shark Valley Tram Road. Source: Wikimedia Commons
Why We Love It
Shark Valley Tram Road in beautiful Everglades National Park is a real gem for e-bike riders.
In U.S. national parks, e-bikes are considered motorized vehicles. So they’re usually only allowed where cars and other motor vehicles can go.
But this gorgeous paved trail is for bicyclists, e-bike riders, and pedestrians alike.
It takes you through different ecosystems, offering glimpses of Florida’s unique wildlife. You can even stop at an observation tower for a unique viewpoint!
This 15-mile route is a can’t-miss destination.
When To Visit
This trail is open 24 hours a day all year long.
But check the forecast before you go!
Hot and humid temps are common, and there may not be spots to refill your drinking water.
Also, thunderstorms and lightning strikes are common in the summer and pose a threat to riders.
Which E-Bike Classes Are Allowed?
E-bike classes 1, 2, and 3 are all permitted on this trail.
Please note:
Any e-bikes or mopeds that do not require pedaling (throttle only) are prohibited.
The speed limit is 15 miles per hour.
Jacksonville Baldwin Rail Trail
While the Jacksonville-Baldwin Rail Trail is quite a bit inland, the city of Jacksonville offers a beautiful boardwalk and coastline with nearby e-biking opportunities too! Image Source: Unsplash
Why We Love It
In 1990, the Florida Greenways and Trails Program purchased a 14.5-mile stretch of abandoned railway between (you guessed it!) Jacksonville and Baldwin.
It’s now a paved path with a generous 12-foot width to accommodate pedestrians, bicyclists, e-bike riders, rollerbladers, and more.
See hawks, turkeys, and alligators as you ride!
While it’s fairly flat, there are some hills to provide a bit of variety.
Take a hiking break at the trailhead for Camp Milton Historic Preserve or any of the 5 other trailheads along the way. Ample picnic tables and shelters make great snack stops, too.
When To Visit
This trail is open from dawn to dusk all year round.
But as with our other recommendations for Florida trails, check the weather! High temps, humid conditions, and thunderstorms can make any ride challenging or dangerous.
Which E-Bike Classes Are Allowed?
We didn’t find guidance from the City of Jacksonville about permissible e-bike classes for the city or for this trail.
We’ve seen reports of 20 mph speed limit signs along the trail. So it’s possible that Class 3 e-bikes (which can provide assisted speeds up to 28 mph) may be restricted.
Stick to the speed limit and you should be ok!
Key West — The Whole Island!
Nothing but blue waters and blue skies in Key West! Source: Wikimedia Commons
Why We Love It
Parking is limited on Key West, the pride and joy of the Florida Keys. This means e-bikes, scooters, and mopeds abound across the island!
Key West offers beautiful oceanfront scenery and historic architecture. E-bikes are a fantastic way to see it all!
Just take note that while non-motorized bicycles are generally allowed on the sidewalks here, e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks! Stick to bike lanes and multi-use paths.
When To Visit
Anytime year-round!
Just stay advised of the weather forecast, as Florida’s hot and humid weather along with storm systems and hurricane season can all throw a wrench in your e-bike plans.
Which E-Bike Classes Are Allowed?
All e-bike classes are allowed in Key West.
Follow the rules of the road when in bike lanes, but restrict speed to 15 mph on multi-use paths (those for bicycles, pedestrians, e-bikes, and more).
Are E-Bikes Legal In Florida?
Yes! Florida recognizes the typical 3-class system for e-bikes and all 3 classes are legal throughout Florida.
However, Florida does have the following requirements for riders:
- Any e-bike rider under 16 years of age must wear a helmet
- If helmets are required for regular bicycles in your state or neighborhood, they’re required for e-bikes, too
- Class 1 e-bikes are permitted in many state parks throughout Florida, but there may be restrictions on other classes; if you have a throttle or a Class 3 e-bike, check the official site for your local state park before going
Do I Need a Driver’s License For E-Bikes In Florida?
Florida doesn’t require a license, registration, or insurance for e-bikes. Just make a note of the helmet and age requirements we listed above!
There are no licensing requirements for e-bikes in Florida. Image Source: Unsplash
Are There E-Bike Incentive Programs In Florida?
As of this article’s publication, Florida has never offered incentive programs for e-bikes.
But over 20 other states have offered programs like these at some point in time, so we have high hopes that Florida will join in soon!
Each incentive program usually has a time limit or maximum amount of funding available, so the list of active incentive programs in each state changes all the time.
Read more about e-bike incentive programs across America.
Where Can I Find Magnum Bikes In Florida?
Looking for a new e-bike in Florida? Look no further!
You can find Magnum Bikes in over 250 authorized dealers and flagship stores across the US. And we have partnerships with over 2 dozen e-bike dealers in the state of Florida.
Visit any one of our Magnum Authorized Dealers in Florida.
Florida is a beautiful e-biking destination. Image Source: Unsplash
E-Bikes Florida FAQs
What else do you want to know about Florida and e-bikes?
Are 750 Watt E-Bikes Legal In Florida?
Yes! E-bikes may have a motor output up to 750W to be treated as an e-bike in the state of Florida.
Once you get over 750W motors, you’re dealing with a moped (sometimes called a “Class 4 e-bike”). These have very different rules of the road — instead of being treated like a bicycle for the purposes of the law, they are more akin to cars and trucks.
Can I Ride My E-Bike On The Sidewalk In Florida?
In Florida, e-bikes are typically afforded the same rights as regular bicycles. So if bicycles are allowed on the sidewalk in your city or neighborhood (and if e-bikes are not expressly prohibited!), you’re in the clear.
Always check local rules and ordinances before taking your e-bike out on a ride.
In places where bicyclists can ride on the sidewalk in Florida, e-bike riders can, too. Pictured: Metro 750
What Class Of E-Bike Is Legal In Florida?
Florida recognizes the 3-class system of e-bikes:
Class 1: Maximum assisted speed of 20mph and no throttle (pedal assist system only)
Class 2: Maximum assisted speed of 28mph with a throttle (pedal assist system optional)
Class 3: Maximum assisted speed of 28mph and optional throttle (pedal assist system required)
In general, all of these classes are legal in the state. However, cities, state parks, and national parks may have their own local regulations.
Where do you love to ride your e-bike in Florida?