At a glance:
Human-powered e-bikes allowed
► PALM will have charging stations at sites specifically for e-bike batteries.
► You may wish to carry a spare battery/charger on the route.
► E-bike users may have a longer wait for an appropriate SAG.
► Mechanics on tour may not be equipped to handle some repairs.
Complete e-bike statement:
What is a bicycle?
MCL 257.4 defines a “bicycle” as: a device propelled by human power upon which a person may ride, having either 2 or 3 wheels in a tandem or tricycle arrangement, all of which are over 14 inches in diameter.
What is an electric bicycle?
Electric bikes ARE, by definition, bicycles. Electric bikes may be ridden like any other bike but have the ability to use an electric motor to assist you in pedaling. Electric bikes provide power-on-demand while you’re pedaling, responding to and complementing your pedaling speed and power. The supply of energy comes from a removable battery, which can last up to 50 miles. If you pedal hard, little battery power will be used. As you slow your pace, though, the electrical assistance kicks in and provides a welcome little boost! Most e-bikes provide up to 150% of your own power with each pedal stroke. You can turn the motor on/off, and also increase the amount of assistance you would like depending on the terrain. The weight of the e-bike is approximately 50-80 pounds. It has an illuminated LCD display, cycle computer, and wattage display. The battery will provide assistance up to speeds of 20 miles per hour. They can go faster, but that’s up to you and your own personal strength.
Michigan Vehicle Code | Section 257.13e | Electric Bicycle defined
All Classes of E-Bikes Allowed
Use of a throttle is permitted on PALM, but if you have to use it, please use it responsibly and sparingly. Riders still need to complete the PALM mileage each day. Like all riders, an e-bike rider will be asked to arrange transportation home if a SAG ride is needed more than two days. It is also important that riders understand that because of the added weight of an e-bike, riders might need to wait longer for a SAG when needed as not all SAG vehicles can carry the heavier bikes. If a SAG is needed, you may be required to load your own bike.
Transportation and Repair
Electric bikes are heavier than a regular bike, 50-80 pounds, and may require specialized tools or parts for repair. If you are taking the bus, our transportation team will load your bikes on the trucks but may wait until the trucks are almost full, so please be patient. The mechanics on PALM are not equipped to handle some specialized repairs that may be needed.
Charging Batteries
PALM will have a charging station at each site specifically for e-bike batteries. You may wish to carry a spare battery with you daily on the route. Charging stations along the route are not guaranteed. Like with any other bicyclist, an e-bike rider is expected to ride responsibly and follow all rules of the road. Please use the PALM charging station to charge your e-bike battery.
MISSION STATEMENT:
Pedal Across Lower Michigan (PALM) is a non-profit group dedicated to encouraging family bicycling and the promotion of bicycling safety.
Pedal Across Lower Michigan 