A growing number of crashes involving E-bikes in the area has prompted law enforcement to call attention to the laws regarding the bikes.
"Riding in a bike lane when they're available, stop at all stop signs, and obey all traffic lights, and you can't weave in and out of traffic, or go the opposite direction of traffic, and you have to walk your E-bike if you are crossing a sidewalk, or using a crosswalk, you cannot drive an E-bike in a crosswalk," said Reno Police Chief Kathryn Nance.
Police warn that riding at fast speeds and in high-traffic zones will likely cause severe collisions.
"So, you can have an electric bike, that's fine, but you must follow all the rules of the road pertaining to bicycles," said Nance. "That means that all bike laws that are in existence, in the state of Nevada and in the city of Reno, must be adhered to by people riding these bikes."
Nevada law does not require electric bicycle riders to have a driver’s license, registration, insurance, or a license plate, but they must follow the same traffic laws and rules of the road as traditional bicycle riders.
While safety gear such as helmets, mirrors, and lights is strongly recommended, it is not required for electric bicycles under state law.
They operate similarly to other bicycles and must follow the same traffic laws, but local ordinances may prohibit riding them in certain parks, on sidewalks, or in specific bike lanes and roadways where posted signs restrict use.
While the E-bike trend has skyrocketed, authorities say the number of crashes is spiking throughout our community.
According to officials, 26 collisions involving either an E-bike, an illegal motorcycle, or a street bike were recorded during the first seven months of 2025.
Police received 181 calls, confirmed 96 reports, issued 50 citations, and arrested six people for reckless driving on an E-bike.
The goal is to keep both riders and drivers safe, stay cautious, make good choices, and enjoy riding while avoiding serious injuries.
