Montrose staff propose new 'classless' ebike definition and 15 mph park speed limit to address high-speed devices

City staff presented a draft ordinance to update the municipal code for electric-assisted bicycles and to add a new definition for what staff called a "classless electric assisted vehicle." Staff said the proposal is intended to address three problems: high-speed operation on city streets (often by juveniles), high-speed operation on municipal parks and trails with collision risk to pedestrians and other cyclists, and damage to park infrastructure from off-trail operation.

Staff reviewed the existing three-class model drawn from the model traffic code (class 1 and class 2 capped at 20 mph; class 3 capped at 28 mph with age and helmet restrictions) and said state definitions codified in 2017 no longer match some modern, higher-powered products. To close that gap, the draft ordinance would create a local definition of "classless electric assisted vehicle" (vehicles with one to three wheels and motors manufactured or modified so they no longer meet class definitions), broadly prohibit those classless vehicles on streets, sidewalks, trails and city property, and limit motor-assisted bicycles in parks to a posted 15 mph speed limit.

Staff described enforcement tools: lidar or radar speed readings would supply a rebuttable presumption that a vehicle exceeding the class speed maximum is a classless vehicle; manufacturer specifications and vehicle documentation would also be admissible evidence to support classification in court. Penalties proposed were class A traffic infractions with a stated range for fines; staff proposed nuisance abatement authority for repeat violations and listed exceptions for city employees acting in the scope of duties, law-enforcement operations, permitted events and private-property operation with owner consent.

Council members and police discussed the choice of a 15 mph park speed limit versus a lower number and cautioned about reaction time and enforcement practicality. Police said enforcement and education would both be needed; staff noted administrative burdens associated with a registration or licensing scheme and the difficulty of capturing riders from outside city jurisdiction.

During public comment residents urged a strong education component, clearer trail signage and enforcement tools. Dave Stockton suggested mandatory training for younger riders; Jim Hoxness and others supported posted speed limits and education. Police noted summer enforcement activity by school resource officers and stressed careful enforcement to avoid causing crashes.

Next steps: staff returned the draft ordinance for council consideration; no ordinance was adopted at the work session and no vote was recorded.