Not only are battery-powered e-bikes here to stay, they are an increasingly popular way for people to get around Whistler and enjoy our recreational trails. This has benefits as well as challenges.
Some of the issues that the RMOW is working to address include enforcing speed limits on the Valley Trail, keep roads and trails safe, addressing the increased impact of e-bikes recreational trails and other trails users, the potential for more injuries and rescues in more remote areas, impacts on wildlife, and even a potential increase in fire and wildfire risks.
Latest update
Whistler’s 2019 draft policy on where you can ride and e-bike is under review as it no longer matches up with April 2024 changes to both the provincial Motor Vehicle Act and Insurance Corporation of BC (ICBC) regulations.
The issue is primarily related to the use of e-bikes on public roads and on trails like the Valley Trail network.
The provincial changes are being reviewed and an updated draft policy will be shared in late 2024. Please note that the provincial changes and RMOW policy review will not change how or where e-bikes or adaptive e-mountain bikes can be ridden on recreational trails (see below for current restrictions).
What type of e-bike do I have?
There are several different classifications of e-mobility devices or e-bikes in Whistler.
Class 1 e-bike: A bike equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedalling (pedal assist), ceases to provide assistance when the bike reaches 32 km/h, and has a maximum continuous output of 500 watts.
Class 2 e-bike: Class 2 e-bikes are classified as motorized vehicles according to the Recreation Sites and Trails BC e-bike policy. By definition, Class 2 e-bikes are equipped with a motor that can be used exclusively to propel the bike by throttle (throttle assist) and ceases to provide assistance when the bike reaches 32 km/h.
Class 3 e-bike: are classified as motorized vehicles according to the Recreation Sites and Trails BC e-bike policy. By definition, this is a bike equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedalling (pedal assist) and ceases to provide assistance when the bike reaches 45 km/h.
Electric adaptive mountain bike: Electric mountain bikes that are adapted for users with limited mobility, including 3-wheel variations. Please note that adaptive mountain bikes are not permitted on hiking-only trails.
Where can I ride my e-bike in Whistler?
E-bikes are not permitted on the following off-road trails:
· Mount Sproatt and Rainbow Mountain alpine trails (anything above Flank Trail including Lord of the Squirrels, Into the Mystic, With a Twist, On the Rocks, Happy Hour, Pot of Gold, LESS, upper Chipmunk Rebellion, and Don’t Look Back). This restriction supports environmental considerations, user safety and grizzly bear management in the alpine terrain.
· Emerald Forest Conservation Area, except for the access road connecting Lorimer Road and Alta Lake Road
· Hiking-only trails
Contact
Parks Planning Department
parksplanningprojects@whistler.ca
