More and more mountain bikers are seeing e-bikes out on the trails. E-bikes are illegal almost everywhere in Central Oregon on singletrack. They are prohibited on Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management trails limited to nonmotorized use. But should they be?

E-bikes don’t have much more impact than regular mountain bikes. They enable more people to more fully enjoy the sport and to perhaps go a bit farther and faster. Singletrack on public lands should be opened up to e-bikes.

It’s important to make a distinction about what kind of e-bike we are talking about. Improved access is appropriate for the low-powered, Class 1 e-bikes. They are pedal assist. They only make pedaling a bit easier. They don’t operate like a motorcycle with a throttle.

But don’t take your e-bike out in areas where they are illegal now. The Forest Service and the BLM consider them motorized vehicles. So for now, they can only go where it’s legal for a car or motorcycle to go. If you’re unsure, don’t do it.

The Forest Service and the BLM should be looking for ways to improve and encourage responsible access to public lands. They should be delivering more recreation and less red tape. Improving access helps build support for the work they do. One place for them to start is with Class 1 e-bikes. And if you want the change to happen, call or email Rep. Greg Walden and tell him what you think (202) 225-6730 or https://walden.house.gov/contact-greg/email-me.