Know the Rules
What’s the Difference?
Not all electric bikes and scooters are the same. Here’s a quick guide:
| Type | How It Works | Max Assisted Speed | Throttle? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class I E-Bike | Motor assists only when pedaling | 20 mph | ✅ |
| Class II E-Bike | Motor can assist without pedaling | 20 mph | ✅ |
| Class III E-Bike | Motor assists only when pedaling | 28 mph | ✅ |
| *Electric Foot Scooter | Stand-up scooter powered by an electric motor | Varies by model | ✅ |
*Any transportation device weighing less than one hundred pounds which is propelled exclusively by an electric motor, or in combination with the application of human power, and has one, two or three wheels, with or without handlebars, and a floorboard or foot pegs that can be stood upon while riding.
Where You Can (and Can’t) Ride
| Location / Activity | Bicycle | Class I E-Bike | Class II E-Bike | Class III E-Bike | Electric Scooter |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| City Streets (under 35 mph) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| City Streets (35 mph & up) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| City Trails | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Sidewalks | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Downtown Sidewalks | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
✅ = Permitted ❌ = Prohibited
⚠️ Quick Reminders:
• Scooters are not allowed on streets with a speed limit of 35 mph or higher.
• No bikes, e-bikes, or scooters are allowed on Downtown sidewalks.
• Always yield to pedestrians and reduce speed at crosswalks and intersections.
Safe Riding Rules
When riding a bicycle, e-bike, or scooter in Kearney:
Yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and trails.
Dismount when sidewalks are crowded or when crossing busy intersections.
Slow down at crosswalks, driveways, and intersections.
Stay as close to the right-hand curb as possible on city streets.
Signal all turns using standard hand signals.
Always be visible — use lights at night and wear bright clothing.
Helmets are strongly encouraged, especially for kids and teens.
Unlawful Operation
It is against city ordinance to operate a bicycle, e-bike, or scooter:
Carelessly or recklessly, endangering others.
With negligence or disregard for safety.
In a way that interferes with normal traffic or street use.