BIKE SAFETY

Bartlett has so many great places to ride your bike or e-bike, so let's make sure that you stay safe.

• Ride at a pace that makes the other users of the path feel comfortable. Being reckless endangers yourself and others.
• Electric bicycles are designed to be as safe as traditional bicycles and do not compromise consumer safety when used properly.
• Before riding your bike, please make sure that all safety and mechanical equipment is working properly.
• Wear your helmet! Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injury.
• When riding at night, please make sure you are using the correct equipment. This includes:

1. Reflective tape, vest, sidewall tires
2. Headlight
3. Rear bicycle light/reflector

 RULES OF THE ROAD

It is very important to follow the rules of the road when riding your bike, to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

• E-Bikes, please stay off the sidewalks! They are not wide enough to safely ride your bike on. E-Bikes are allowed on bike paths and the roadway.
• If a pedestrian is on the bike path, slow down and take precautions if passing.
• Ride to the far right side of the path, and only pass on the left when safe to do so.
• Use hand signals to communicate your intent to motorists. These include all turn signals and the stop signal.
• Obey the same traffic laws, signs, and signals that apply to motorists.

For more information on e-bikes, bicycle rules, and bicycle safety, please visit the Illinois Secretary of State website to see the Illinois Bicycle Rules of the Road.  

3 E-Bike Classes

Class 1 - 20 mph max; Pedal assisted, no assistance without pedaling
Class 2 - 20 mph max; Throttle assisted, can be ridden without pedaling
Class 3 - 28 mph max; Pedal assisted/optional throttle, no assistance without pedaling, no riders younger than 18 years old

The above classes are the only types of electric bikes permitted on Bartlett’s trails. Please check the manufacturer’s label on your bike to make sure it is one of these three types of allowable e-bikes.

Prohibited Vehicles

Prohibited vehicles include quads, motorcycles, dirt bikes, or mopeds, as well as any e-bike that does not fall under the three classes designated by the State of Illinois.