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Ride Smart. Stay Safe.

E-Bike and Scooter Rules

E-bikes and scooters can go over 20 mph—which means a crash can be fatal. Whether your child is on their way to school or just riding for fun, it’s important to know the rules and how to ride safely.

As e-bike use continues to rise, the City wants to ensure everyone stays safe on our roadways, parks and trails. Be sure you and your family know the laws, regulations and responsibilities that come with riding electric devices like e-bikes, scooters and motorcycles, helping us all share the road responsibly.

New Code Updates for Bikes, E-Bikes and E-Scooters Focus on Safety

New Henderson Municipal Code updates are now in effect to improve safety for riders and the community. The changes apply to bicycles, e-bikes, e-motorcycles and e-scooters and are designed to reduce injuries, encourage responsible riding and clarify equipment requirements. These updates reinforce our commitment to keeping streets, trails and neighborhoods safe for everyone. Riders and parents are encouraged to review the new rules and ensure equipment and riding habits meet current safety standards. Ride smart. Stay safe. Know the law.
Helmet Requirement for Riders Under 18

All riders under the age of 18 must always wear a helmet when operating a bicycle, e-bike or e-scooter.

Wearing a properly fitted helmet significantly reduces the risk of serious head injuries and is a critical step in protecting riders.

Required Safety Equipment

Bicycles, e-bikes and e-scooters must be equipped with the following safety features:
  • A front white light
  • A rear red reflector
  • A bell or horn
  • Functional brakes
These requirements help improve visibility and communication between riders, pedestrians and drivers.
Prohibited Activities

To further promote safe riding, the municipal code prohibits:
  • Operating an e-motorcycle on any public roadway, sidewalk, trail, park, path or parking lot
  • Performing stunts or engaging in reckless behavior
  • Traveling at speeds greater than 15 mph unless otherwise posted
  • Attaching oneself to another vehicle
  • Carrying items without keeping at least one hand on the handlebars
Legal vs. Illegal E-Bikes

Not all electric two-wheel vehicles qualify as legal e-bikes.
 
A vehicle without operable pedals that is powered solely by a throttle is classified as an e-motorcycle. E-motorcycles are illegal to operate anywhere in the City of Henderson, including public roadways, trails, parks, paths and sidewalks.
 
Legal e-bikes must:
  • Have fully operable pedals
  • Use pedal assist
  • Be limited to 28 mph
Illegal vs Legal
Enforcement

Illegal e-motorcycles may be impounded by law enforcement.
 
Parents and legal guardians may be liable for their child's unsafe and reckless e-bike or illegal e-motorcycle use.

Additional Information on Bikes, E-Bikes and E-Scooters

Why It Matters
Tips For Parents
Tips For Riders
Lawful And Appropriate Use

Bike Safety

Whether you're using a bicycle to get to work or for fun, we encourage bicyclists and motorists to share the road and to know your responsibilities and rights.

Protect Your Head

Protect Your Head

  • Make sure your helmet fits properly.
  • Helmet should sit horizontally on your head and not move around.
Be Visible

Be Visible

  • Always wear bright-colored clothing during the day and reflective clothing at night.
  • Use a white light on the front and a red reflector on the rear of your bike.
Use Bike Friendly Route

Use Bike-Friendly Routes

  • Plan your route. A simple 5-minute detour can make your journey safer and more enjoyable. 
  • Look for lower volume and slower speed route options.
Be Predictable

Be Predictable

  • Make sure your intentions are clear to other road users.
  • Signal early and decisively.
  • Ride in the same direction as traffic and obey traffic laws.
Ride Defensively

Ride Defensively

  • Be aware of what is in front of and behind you.
  • Avoid wearing headphones.