Electric Bikes in Bend
Why Electric Bikes Are Booming in Bend
Bend’s network of trails, scenic routes, and bike-friendly roads make it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts—and electric bikes (e-bikes) are taking the spotlight. Whether you’re commuting, exploring the Cascade Lakes, or just cruising through neighborhoods, e-bikes offer an accessible and eco-friendly way to experience the outdoors without the strain of a traditional bike.
Top Places to Get an Electric Bike in Bend
Bend Electric Bikes
https://www.bendelectricbikes.com/
869 NW Wall St #104, Bend, OR 97703
Bend’s original electric bike shop, locally owned and fully dedicated to e-bikes.
Offers a wide selection of top e-bike brands like Gazelle, Tern, and Riese & Müller.
Focuses on urban commuting, cargo bikes, and family-friendly models.
Provides expert repair, custom fitting, and ongoing maintenance.
Friendly staff ready to help new riders or seasoned cyclists explore their options.
Offers test rides and personalized consultations.
Pedego Electric Bikes Bend
https://pedegoelectricbikes.com/pages/dealers/bend
25 NW Minnesota Ave #6, Bend, OR 97703
Exclusive Bend dealer for Pedego, a nationally recognized e-bike brand.
Known for comfort-focused cruisers and easy-to-use electric models.
Offers rentals, sales, and service with flexible packages.
Provides a relaxed buying experience with local insight and demo rides.
Great for visitors looking to try before they buy.
Personalized attention and post-purchase support.
Bend Velo Bike Shop
https://www.bendvelo.com/
341 NE Emerson Ave, Bend, OR 97701
Longtime Bend bike shop offering a variety of e-bikes and accessories.
Carries Surly, Salsa, and other high-quality brands with electric options.
Known for its service-first approach and strong repair department.
Offers commuter and adventure-style e-bikes.
Experienced mechanics can customize or retrofit standard bikes.
Supports the local cycling community and hosts workshops.
Voltaire Cycles of Central Oregon
https://vcoregon.com/
2755 NW Crossing Dr Suite 113, Bend, OR 97703
Specialty e-mobility shop focused on electric bikes, scooters, and accessories.
Offers premium and hard-to-find e-bike models.
In-house service for batteries, motors, and electronics.
Knowledgeable team helps match riders with the best bike for their needs.
Also carries cargo, fat tire, and folding e-bikes for all terrain types.
Great showroom in the heart of Northwest Crossing.
BendR Cyclery
https://bendrcyclery.com/
20784 Carmen Loop Suite 130, Bend, OR 97702
A performance-oriented shop carrying electric mountain bikes and gravel bikes.
Stocks e-bikes from brands like Giant and Liv.
Known for excellent service and tuning for higher-end e-MTBs.
Friendly staff focused on long-term bike care and rider success.
Offers both traditional and electric bike sales and repairs.
Often has demo events for new models.
Sunnyside Sports
https://www.sunnysidesports.com/
930 NW Newport Ave, Bend, OR 97703
A staple in the Bend outdoor scene, with an e-bike selection growing each year.
Offers commuter, adventure, and fat tire electric bikes.
Staffed by outdoor enthusiasts who understand local terrain and riding needs.
Full-service repairs and fittings.
Great for riders who want to combine e-bikes with other outdoor gear.
Close to popular trails and scenic routes.
Let It Ride Electric Bikes (Rentals & Tours)
https://www.letitridebend.com/
Specializes in electric bike rentals and guided tours around Bend.
Offers fat tire, cruiser, and mountain-style e-bikes.
Tour options include breweries, scenic overlooks, and river paths.
Great for visitors looking for a fun and accessible way to explore Bend.
Provides helmets, locks, and local riding tips with each rental.
Walk-ins welcome, reservations recommended during peak season.
Types of E-Bikes You’ll See Around Bend
Not all e-bikes are the same. Here's a breakdown of common types:
Commuter E-Bikes – Designed for city riding with a comfortable upright position and efficient motor assist.
Mountain E-Bikes (e-MTBs) – Feature rugged tires, suspension, and torque for singletrack and fire roads.
Fat Tire E-Bikes – Great for snow, gravel, and sand. Popular for year-round riding in Bend’s mixed terrain.
Folding E-Bikes – Compact and ideal for RV travelers or apartment dwellers.
Cargo E-Bikes – Built to haul gear, groceries, or kids. Popular with local families and business owners.
Where You Can Ride E-Bikes in Bend
Bend is generally e-bike friendly, but some trails restrict access. Here’s what to know:
City Streets and Paved Paths – Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed on most multi-use paths and roads.
Deschutes River Trail (Paved Sections) – Generally open to e-bikes; always yield to pedestrians.
Phil’s Trail Network – Class 1 e-MTBs only, and not permitted on all trails. Check signage or Trailforks.
Forest Service and BLM Land – Restrictions vary. Many singletrack trails are still off-limits to e-bikes unless designated.
Mt. Bachelor – Offers e-MTB-friendly lift-served downhill riding during summer.
E-Bike Laws in Oregon (and What Applies to Bend)
Minimum Age – Riders must be at least 16 to operate Class 3 e-bikes.
Helmet Required – Only for Class 3 e-bikes, but recommended for all.
No License Needed – No DMV license or registration required.
E-Bike Classes:
Class 1: Pedal-assist only (up to 20 mph)
Class 2: Throttle-assisted (up to 20 mph)
Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph
Always follow local signage and check with the City of Bend or Deschutes National Forest for updates on e-bike access.
Electric Bike Rules and Things to Know in Bend, Oregon
Electric bikes have become a popular way to explore Bend and Central Oregon. Whether you're commuting, cruising downtown, or exploring Bend’s trail system, it's important to know the local regulations before you ride.
Classes of E-Bikes Allowed
Oregon recognizes three classes of electric bikes:
Class 1 – Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph
Class 2 – Throttle-assist, up to 20 mph
Class 3 – Pedal-assist, up to 28 mph
Only Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are allowed on Bend’s multi-use paths, including the Deschutes River Trail and trails in the Old Mill District.
Where You Can Ride
E-bikes are allowed on most city streets and designated bike lanes.
Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed on paved paths like Drake Park, the Larkspur Trail, and portions of the Deschutes River Trail.
Off-road and dirt trails maintained by the U.S. Forest Service may restrict e-bike use. Check individual trail regulations before heading out.
Helpful resources:
City of Bend E-Bike Info: https://www.bendoregon.gov/government/departments/community-development/bike-bend/e-bikes
Deschutes National Forest MVUMs: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/deschutes/maps-pubs/?cid=fsbdev3_035880
Oregon State Parks E-Bike Policy: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.page&id=55
Age, License, and Registration
No license or registration is required to operate an e-bike in Oregon.
Class 3 e-bike riders must be at least 16 years old.
Safety and Trail Etiquette
Yield to pedestrians on shared-use paths.
Use a bell or call out when passing others.
Observe posted speed limits and ride at a safe speed.
Helmets are strongly recommended for all riders and required for riders under age 16.
E-Bike Rentals vs. Buying in Bend
If you’re just visiting or want to test the waters, rentals are widely available. Most shops offer hourly or daily rentals with options for mountain, cruiser, or fat tire e-bikes.
Buying an e-bike is a bigger investment, but many local dealers offer trial rides, service plans, and in-person support.
E-Bike Maintenance & Safety Tips
Battery Care – Charge after each ride and avoid extreme temps.
Regular Tune-Ups – E-bikes need standard bike maintenance plus occasional motor system checks.
Braking Power – E-bikes are heavier; make sure your brakes are strong and responsive.
Secure Storage – Use a heavy-duty U-lock and store your bike indoors when possible.
Sustainability and the Bend Lifestyle
E-bikes align perfectly with Bend’s environmentally conscious, active lifestyle. They reduce car trips, lower emissions, and offer a fun way to get around while staying connected to the outdoors. Whether you’re running errands downtown or adventuring along the Cascades, e-bikes are quickly becoming a core part of local life.
FAQs - Electric Bikes
What is an electric bike (e-bike)?
An electric bike is a bicycle equipped with a battery-powered motor that assists you while pedaling. It still requires pedaling, but makes riding easier, especially on hills or longer distances.
Do I need a license to ride an electric bike in Oregon?
No license, registration, or insurance is required for most e-bikes in Oregon as long as the motor is under 750 watts and the bike doesn’t exceed 20 mph on motor power alone.
How far can an electric bike go on a full charge?
Most e-bikes have a range of 20 to 60 miles per charge, depending on the battery size, terrain, and how much you use the motor.
How long does it take to charge an e-bike battery?
Charging typically takes 3 to 6 hours using a standard wall outlet. Battery size and charger type can affect the time.
Can I ride an electric bike in the snow or rain?
Yes, most e-bikes are water-resistant and can be ridden in snow or rain. However, it’s important to avoid deep puddles or power washing the electrical components.
Are electric bikes allowed on trails in Central Oregon?
It depends. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are often allowed on multi-use paths and city trails. Some dirt or mountain bike trails may restrict motorized bikes, so always check the specific trail regulations.
How much maintenance do e-bikes require?
Basic bike maintenance applies—like chain lubrication, brake checks, and tire pressure. Additionally, you’ll want to keep the battery properly charged and store it indoors during extreme temperatures.
What’s the difference between Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes?
Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph.
Class 2: Throttle-assisted (no pedaling required), up to 20 mph.
Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph, often with speedometers.
