E-Bikes on the Pinellas Trail: What You Need to Know

Published on September 24, 2025

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Contributed by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, Inside the Star

You’re huffing and puffing up a steep overpass on the Pinellas Trail when a cyclist cruises past you with barely any effort, pedaling at a leisurely rate but still beating you without breaking a sweat. Welcome to the world of the electric bike, or e-bike, a relatively new mode of transportation that’s been stirring up some big feelings on all sides. Regardless of where you stand, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) wants to ensure you know the rules designed to keep everyone safe.

The Rules:

E-bikes are legally the same as bicycles. That means they can go wherever bikes can go, including sidewalks, trails, and roads. They must also follow the same rules. Riders under 16 must wear a helmet, and all operators must obey speed limits. On the Trail, that limit is 20 mph.

Legal E-Bike Checklist:

  • 28 mph max speed
  • 750-watt motor max
  • Working pedals required
  • No illegal modifications

If your e-bike does not check all of these boxes, then you have a motor vehicle that requires registration and a licensed driver and it does not belong on the Trail.

What We’re Seeing:

Are e-bikes actually a problem on the Pinellas Trail? Deputies recently did a speed study on the trail, and the results showed that almost all Trail riders obey the speed limit. Community Policing Deputies help educate people on the Trail and elsewhere about e-bike safety and laws. They also take the time to chat with people about their concerns. On a recent patrol, they heard tips regarding particular intersections that people were concerned about. With the entire Pinellas Trail Loop being 75 miles long, it is impossible for law enforcement to constantly patrol all of it, so they rely on citizens to help them find the problem spots and the rule-breakers. Trail users are encouraged to report problems so patrols can focus where needed.

Whether you are on a traditional bike, e-bike, skateboard, or even if you are a pedestrian on the Pinellas Trail, remember to always be courteous and predictable. Stay on the right except to pass, and announce you’re passing with a bell, horn, or your voice. If you are stopping, step off the trail so you do not create an obstruction. If you are riding in a group, do not take up the whole width of the trail. Always ride at a safe speed, and slow-down in crowded areas.

Even if you feel confident in your skills, riding fast and close to people can be scary for them, and a slight miscalculation can be disastrous. Remember that people travel the Trail for a variety of reasons, and they have a variety of abilities. Be a polite pedestrian and keep the Trail safe for everyone.

Read the complete Inside the Star article here.

 

 

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