E-bikes on Belle Isle Park
Southeast Michigan (Metro Detroit & Ann Arbor), Michigan · Wayne · Managed by Michigan DNR – Parks & Recreation Division
🟠 Class 1 only
Last checked:
Which classes: On park roads: Class 1, 2 and 3. On park trails/paths: Class 1 only (Class 2 with DNR mobility permit; no Class 3).
The rules
Most riding on Belle Isle is on park roads, where all three e-bike classes can go anywhere a regular bike can. On trails and pathways only Class 1 is allowed, and Class 2 needs a free DNR mobility permit.
What the official source says:
Allowed on all state park, recreation area and state forest trails/pathways that permit traditional bicycles.
Source: Michigan DNR – Parks & Recreation Division
📞 Call ahead: 313-821-9844 (rules and closures change)
Paved roads and paths
Gear for this ride
- Thule EasyFold XT 2 hitch rackFolding 2-bike hitch rack rated for 65 lb per bike — enough for most e-bikes. Check your bike's weight first.
- Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboudit Mini U-lockKryptonite's top-rated U-lock, Sold Secure Gold, for trailheads and town stops.
- Cygolite Metro Plus 800 headlight800-lumen USB-rechargeable headlight for dusk rides and tunnels.
- Lumos Ultra E-Bike helmetNTA 8776-certified for e-bike speeds, with built-in front, rear and turn-signal lights.
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Michigan's e-bike classes
Michigan has three e-bike classes: Class 1 (pedal-assist to 20 mph), Class 2 (throttle, up to 20 mph) and Class 3 (pedal-assist to 28 mph). All three need working pedals, a seat and a motor of no more than 750 watts. Michigan e-bike laws →
Not sure which class you have? E-bike classes explained →
Did this rule change, or is something here wrong? Tell us and we'll re-check it against the official source.
Nearby trails
- Pinckney Recreation Area (Potawatomi and multi-use trails) 🟠 Class 1 onlyMichigan DNR – Parks & Recreation Division
- Island Lake Recreation Area (mountain bike trails) 🟠 Class 1 onlyMichigan DNR – Parks & Recreation Division
- Huron-Clinton Metroparks hike-bike trails (Kensington, Stony Creek, Hudson Mills and others) 🟢 Class 1 & 2 onlyHuron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority
- Detroit RiverWalk ❔ Call firstDetroit Riverfront Conservancy