New Mexico

Helmet Laws

• Bicycles:
  • No statewide helmet law in New Mexico.
  • Some cities (e.g., Albuquerque) require helmets for riders under 18.

• E-Bikes:
  • No statewide helmet requirement, including for Class 3.
  • Helmet use is strongly encouraged, especially for youth and high-speed riders.

E-Bike Classification

New Mexico does not currently use the 3-class system, but does recognize low-speed electric bicycles under state law:

• Defined as bicycles with pedals and electric motors under 750 watts, not capable of speeds greater than 20 mph on motor power alone.

✔ Treated the same as traditional bicycles under most laws.
✔ No license, insurance, or registration required.

⚠️ Class 3-style e-bikes (28 mph pedal-assist) are not explicitly addressed in state law, so local regulation may vary.

Where You Can Ride

• Sidewalks:
  • Permitted unless prohibited by local ordinance.
  • Some cities restrict bicycle or e-bike riding on sidewalks in business districts.

• Bike Lanes:
  • Legal for most e-bikes, unless posted otherwise.

• Shared-Use Paths / Trails:
  • Allowed for low-speed e-bikes, unless restricted by local authority or trail rules.

• Roadways:
  • E-bikes may operate on most roadways, following all standard bicycle laws.

Age Restrictions

• No statewide age restriction, but local laws may impose limits on e-bike riders — especially on faster models.

• Riders under 18 are often encouraged or required to wear helmets in urban areas.

Lights & Equipment

• At night, bicycles and e-bikes must have:
  • A white front light visible from 500 feet
  • A red rear reflector visible from 300 feet

• Must also have brakes capable of skidding on dry pavement.

Source:

New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 66-1-4.5 (Definitions)