Montana

Helmet Laws

• Bicycles:
  • No statewide helmet law in Montana.
  • Local governments may set their own rules, but most areas do not mandate helmets.

• E-Bikes:
  • No helmet requirement under state law, even for Class 3 e-bikes.
  • Helmet use is strongly encouraged, especially for riders under 18 and high-speed riders.

E-Bike Classification

Montana recognizes and follows the 3-class e-bike system:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, max 20 mph

• Class 2: Throttle-assist (no pedaling required), max 20 mph

• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, max 28 mph

✔ E-bikes are not motor vehicles under Montana law.
✔ No license, registration, or insurance is required.

Where You Can Ride

• Sidewalks:
  • Regulated locally — generally allowed unless prohibited in specific cities.

• Bike Lanes:
  • E-bikes are permitted, but Class 3 bikes may be restricted in high-pedestrian areas.

• Shared-Use Paths / Trails:
  • Class 1 and 2 are typically allowed.
  • Class 3 may be restricted depending on the managing agency (e.g., parks departments).

• Roadways:
  • E-bikes can ride on roads like regular bicycles and must obey all traffic signals and signs.

Age Restrictions

• Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike.

• No age restriction for Class 1 and 2, but helmet use is encouraged.

Lights & Equipment

• Required when riding at night:
  • A white front light visible from at least 500 feet
  • A red rear reflector or light visible from 600 feet

• All bikes must have working brakes and reflective side materials for safety.

Source:

Montana Code Annotated – Title 61, Chapter 8