Mentor City Council unanimously passed three ordinances on September 15, 2026, clarifying how electric bicycles or “e-bikes” may be used in the city.
These ordinances are effective immediately in the City of Mentor and are intended to reduce preventable injuries as e-bikes become more common on streets, sidewalks, and shared paths in our community.
ORDINANCE NO. 26-O-076
This ordinance clarifies that no one may ride as a passenger on an e-bike unless it is specifically designed and equipped by the original manufacturer to carry a passenger.
ORDINANCE NO. 26-O-077
This ordinance clarifies that e-bike operators must provide an audible warning of some sort before overtaking and passing a pedestrian on a sidewalk or shared path. An audible warning could be a bell, a horn, or even a simple “heads up, I’m coming by”.
ORDINANCE NO. 26-O-078
This ordinance clarifies that all persons operating e-bikes must wear a helmet while riding in the city of Mentor. State law already requires helmet use for Class 3 e-bikes. Mentor now applies the same standard to Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes so the rule is uniform and easier to follow and enforce.
E-BIKE CLASSES
Ohio law defines e-bikes in three classes, all with fully operable pedals and a motor of less than 750 watts:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only; assistance stops at 20 mph.
- Class 2: Assist may work whether or not the rider is pedaling; assistance stops at 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only; assistance stops at 28 mph.
No one under the age of 16 may operate a Class 3 electric bicycle. A person under 16 may ride as a passenger on a Class 3 only if the bicycle is designed to accommodate passengers.
OTHER RULES THAT APPLY
- In Mentor, the motor must be turned off completely when an e-bike is ridden on a sidewalk so it is operated like a regular bicycle.
- On the street, riders must obey ALL traffic laws including speed limits, right of way, stop signs, and signals.
- From sunset to sunrise, every e-bike needs a bright white front light and a red rear light with reflector.
- Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes may use bike paths and shared-use paths; Class 3 models are limited to roadways.
- No class of e-bike is allowed on hiking trails or natural-surface paths.
POTENTIAL PENALTIES
Violation of these ordinances are minor misdemeanors. A first violation can result in a fine of up to $150. Repeat offenses within one year can raise charges up to a fourth-degree misdemeanor. A fourth-degree misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $250.
E-bikes can be fun and convenient modes of transportation, and their use is quickly becoming popular in communities across the US. It is important for all members of our community to prioritize safety, and for parents to educate their children on proper use.
For questions related to e-bike use, contact Captain Majernik of the Mentor Police Department at 440-974-5760 or [email protected].