Kane County to Implement E-Bike Speed Reduction Program
The Forest Preserve District of Kane County is preparing to pilot a program aimed at slowing down excessive speeding by electric bicycle (E-bike) riders on its trails.
E-bikes, equipped with a motor to assist pedaling, can reach speeds of up to 28 mph, raising safety concerns on the county's over 200 miles of trails. In response, the Forest Preserve District plans to launch an E-bike speed reduction program this summer, including the use of digital speed signs similar to those used for cars. The initiative will focus on Class E-3 bicycles, which can exceed posted speed limits. Class E-2 and E-1 bikes are currently the only classes of E-bikes allowed on trails maintained by Kane County.
Here's how the definition reads in the Kane County Forest Preserve's General Order.
“Bicycle" definition – Every device propelled by human power upon which any person may ride, having two, three or four wheels, except scooters and similar devices. Low-speed electric bicycles equipped with fully operational pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (Class 1 or Class 2 low speed electric bicycles) whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor is less than twenty (20) mph shall be considered a bicycle and all regulations as such shall apply.
The speed limit on the trails is 15 mph, per the General Use Ordinance.
The digital speed enforcement signs will be movable and equipped with a relay system to transmit real-time data to Forest Preserve police, alerting them when an E-bike exceeds the posted limit. The signs will also serve as a reminder to all riders to obey the speed limit and slow down if they are shown to be exceeding it.
The plan was discussed during the Kane County Forest Preserve meeting on May 14, 2024.
Illinois law categorizes E-bikes into three classes based on their speed capabilities, with Class 1 and 2 allowed on trails with certain restrictions. Class 3 E-bikes, capable of reaching 28 mph, are the focus of the speed reduction program.
Forest Preserve officials emphasize the importance of E-bikes for individuals who enjoy cycling but may have difficulty pedaling under their own power. However, the trails are multi-purpose in nature and are used by walkers, runners, wheelchairs, parents with strollers, bicyclists and riders on horseback. The Forest Preserve wants as many people to be able to enjoy the trails as possible while keeping the trails safe for all of these uses. The Kane County Forest Preserve staff determined that Class 3 and above e-bikes were not suitable for the trail system, due to their speeds, and are therefore not permitted on Forest Preserve District of Kane County trails.
