E-Bikes Wisconsin: Where Can I Ride?
From scenic Great Lakes shorelines to expansive forests, the Mississippi River to streams and marshlands, Wisconsin has it all.
This diverse natural landscape is perfect for an e-bike getaway.
Take a look at some of our favorite spots to ride your e-bike in Wisconsin. Plus, learn about the local rules and programs available.
If you already know what info you’re looking for, jump ahead!
What Are The Best E-Bike Trails And Parks In Wisconsin?
Are E-Bikes Legal In Wisconsin?
Are There E-Bike Incentive Programs In Wisconsin?
Where Can I Find Magnum Bikes In Wisconsin?
What Are The Best E-Bike Trails And Parks In Wisconsin?
Explore Wisconsin’s best trails in and out of the city.
Elroy-Sparta State Trail
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One of many historic tunnels on the Elroy-Sparta rail trail. Dismount and walk your e-bike through all tunnels on the trail! Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
Why We Love It
Elroy-Sparta is considered the very first rail-trail in the United States! A rail-trail is a stretch of former railroad converted into a multi-use trail.
The nearly 33-mile route passes through 5 towns, and visitors travel through 3 rock tunnels along the way.
You'll enjoy scenic views of wetlands as well as prairies, farms, and unique unglaciated areas (parts of land unchanged by ice ages).
Elroy-Sparta remains one the country’s most popular rail-trails.
A state trail pass is required for access.
When To Visit
Plan your visit between May 1st and October 31st from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm
That’s because from November 1st to April 30th each year, the 3 tunnels on the Elroy-Sparta State Trail are closed.
While you can still use the trail on either end of the tunnels outside of those times, you won’t get the full experience.
Which E-Bike Classes Are Allowed?
All e-bike classes are allowed on this trail.
However, all bikes and e-bikes must observe the maximum 15 mph speed limit.
Blue Mound State Park
Ride your e-bike to an observation tower in Blue Mound State Park for incredible views of Wisconsin farmland and greenery. Image Source: Flickr
Why We Love It
Blue Mound State Park features the highest elevation in southern Wisconsin, affording incredible views throughout the park.
It’s incredibly bike-friendly with over 20 miles of trails, including 15.5 miles of hilly, off-road, singlet rack trails.
The park even has bike-in camping available for overnight stays.
And in the summer, there’s a swimming pool available for you to cool off!
When To Visit
The park is open and accessible in spring, summer, and fall each year.
However, bicycle trails are closed in the winter.
Which E-Bike Classes Are Allowed?
All e-bike classes are allowed in this state park, but riders must observe the maximum speed limit of 15 mph.
Hank Aaron State Trail
The Hank Aaron Trail in Milwaukee is a wonderful way to explore the city by e-bike. Source:ne of many historic tunnels on the Elroy-Sparta rail trail. Dismount and walk your e-bike through all tunnels on the trail! Image Source: Flickr
Why We Love It
Although this is an official state trail, there’s no park pass required to explore it.
Named for baseball legend Hank Aaron, the 12-mile asphalt trail is a great way to travel between landmarks in Milwaukee.
You can visit the Milwaukee County Zoo, Discovery World, the Milwaukee Art Museum, and even Lakeshore State Park along the trail. (You’ll need to park and lock up your e-bike to explore these destinations, though!)
Hank Aaron State Trail also connects to Milwaukee’s massive Oak Leaf Trail, spanning over 120 miles and made up of multiple lines and loops, creating a highly connected way to explore the urban area.
When To Visit
The Hank Aaron Trail is open 6:00 am to 11:00 pm all year round.
It can get cold, icy, and snowy in Milwaukee, so plan ahead during winter months!
Which E-Bike Classes Are Allowed?
As with other Wisconsin state park trails, all e-bike classes are allowed, but you must obey the 15 mph speed limit at all times.
Are E-Bikes Legal In Wisconsin?
Here’s what you should know about rules and regulations for e-bikes in Wisconsin!
- Anywhere that helmets are required for traditional bicycles, they’re required for e-bikes too
- Riders under age 16 cannot operate Class 3 e-bikes
- When it comes to state parks, if you turn your motor off (don’t use throttle or pedal-assist system), then your e-bike is welcome anywhere traditional bicycles are allowed
- Yes, this basically takes the “e” out of “e-bike.” But hey, at least you’re riding!
- E-bikes with motors turned on are allowed on touring trails in state parks, but not mountain bike trails (unless otherwise posted)
Do I Need a Driver’s License For E-Bikes In Wisconsin?
No driver’s license is required for e-bikes in Wisconsin. And you don’t need registration or insurance, either.
The State of Wisconsin doesn’t require a license or registration for e-bikes in Wisconsin. Wisconsin Capitol Building in Madison, WI. Image Source: Unsplash
Are There E-Bike Incentive Programs In Wisconsin?
Wisconsin is new to the electric bike incentive system, but we hope to see participation from more cities and counties within the state.
E-bike incentive programs change regularly. To access the most up-to-date info on programs in Wisconsin and other states, see our post on electric bike incentive programs.
Where Can I Find Magnum Bikes In Wisconsin?
Magnum Bikes has partnerships with authorized dealers across Wisconsin. They’re part of our network of more than 250 authorized dealers and flagship stores nationwide!
See our complete list of Magnum Authorized Dealers in Wisconsin.
In Madison? Swing by Tenney Park to catch a beautiful sunset over Lake Mendota! Source: Unsplash
E-Bikes Wisconsin FAQs
What else do you want to know about riding e-bikes in Wisconsin? Here some common questions.
Are E-Bikes Allowed on Bike Trails In Wisconsin?
Always check the rules for any individual trail before going.
However, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources lists many e-bike-friendly trails on state parks land and beyond.
In fact, if you turn your motor off, you can take your e-bike just about anywhere in the state where traditional bikes are allowed. (Sure, it may defeat the purpose of electric bikes for those areas, but you still get to go!)
When it comes to National Parks, e-bikes are only allowed on motorized trails (roadways where all vehicles are permitted).
Can You Use Electric Bikes On Public Land In Wisconsin?
A serene scene in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Wisconsin. As with many national parks, e-bikes are only allowed on vehicle roadways here. Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
It depends on the land.
On Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, you can only operate your e-bike on roadways for motor vehicles. However, individual BLM Manager may authorize different regulations.
Similarly, in National Parks, you’re typically restricted to roadways for motor vehicles only (no trails). Wildlife preserves and refuges may prohibit e-bikes entirely.
So, as with trails and parks, find the rules and regulations for the specific public land you’re hoping to visit before you go.
Are Class 3 E-Bikes Legal In Wisconsin?
Yes, Class 3 e-bikes are legal in Wisconsin.
However, their use is typically restricted to roadways with other motor vehicles; they may not be allowed on sidewalks or certain bike paths.
Always obey posted speed limits, which may be below the maximum assisted speed of 28 mph for Class 3 e-bikes. For example, most Wisconsin state park lands restrict e-bike speeds to 15 mph.
Ready to hit the trails in Wisconsin?
