We support access to all public trails for Class 1 e-bike use in Bend.

Our mission.

Who are we?

As cycling enthusiasts and residents of the Greater Bend Metro Area, our group advocates for access to all public bicycle trails for Class 1 e-bikes. We argue that because these bikes are pedal-assisted, they should not be considered ‘motorized vehicles’ as currently classified by the USFS. The BLM and National Park Service have both re-classified Class-1 eBikes as ‘non-motorized vehicles’. It is time for the USFS to do the same.

What do we stand for?

All riders have the right to recreation regardless of age and ability. Modern e-bike rules and policies need to reflect non-discriminatory practices that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion of Class 1 e-bikes as a path to improving recreational access for a broader community of Class 1 e-bike enthusiasts. This community includes casual riders to seasoned professionals, the young, old, and physically challenged.

What do we do?

We seek to educate the community about the benefits and proper uses of Class-1 e-bikes. We advocate for Federal, State, and Local governments as well as local bicycle trail organizations to encourage and enact regulations allowing the use of Class 1 e-bikes on public bicycle trails. We will activate the growing e-bike community in Central Oregon to support access to all public trails for Class 1 e-bike use.

What we expect as a result:

Our primary objective is for the Deschutes National Forest Service and other impacting organizations such as COTA, to implement changes that removes existing restrictions which prohibit Class 1 e-bikes on Central Oregon bicycle trails. Will you join our movement?

What is a Class 1 E-bike?

E-bikes are composed of 3 classes. Class-1 is a pedal-assist only bicycle. An electric Mountain Bike (eMTB) has similar geometry and functionality as a conventional Mountain Bike (MTB). The motor is only active when the rider pedals and there is no throttle.

Although eMTBs have the same geometry as conventional MTBs, they have lower gear ratios which limit top speed for the rider. Thus, eMTB riders still need to pedal, leading to a good cardiovascular workout and those needing assistance can more easily get up hills without getting off and walking.

Our group is looking to get access to single-track trails on public lands for Class-1 pedal-assisted eMTBs. An exhaustive study by Tahoe National Forest, published in 2021, has proven that Class-1 eMTBs do not degrade trails, cause speeding accidents, nor do they disrupt conventional MTB riders. Using this precedent, it is logical that Deschutes National Forest do the same in opening up single-track trails to eMTBs.