What to Know About Mackinac Island’s New E-Bike Rules

For the longest time, e-bikes were banned on Mackinac Island, but since allowing them, there have been 10 fires from exploding batteries. The island has updated its ordinance.

E-Bikes and Mackinac Island

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Photo by Christian Alvarez on Unsplash

One of the most popular things to do on Mackinac Island is to ride a bicycle around the perimeter. The 8.2-mile shoreline loop (M-185) is the only state highway in the U.S. without motor vehicles. There has been a ban on motorized vehicles since 1898.

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Photo by Christian Alvarez on Unsplash

E-bikes are largely banned on Mackinac Island. Only certain Class 1 pedal-assist models are allowed for individuals with documented mobility disabilities.

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Read More: Shocking Truth About E-Bike Fire Risks Exposed

In response to the e-bike fires, Mackinac Island has revised its ordinances governing their use.

New E-Bike Ordinance Rolls Out on Mackinac Island

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Photo by Himiway Bikes on Unsplash

Under an ordinance enacted April 29, 2026, the City of Mackinac Island now requires riders of Class 1 e-bikes to provide documentation from a medical examiner verifying they qualify for mobility assistance. The qualifications to use an electric-assist bicycle or tricycle include:

• Cannot walk 200 feet without stopping to rest.
• Cannot walk without the use of, or assistance from, a brace, cane, crutch, another person, prosthetic devices, wheelchair or other assistive device.
• Is restricted by lung disease.
• Uses portable oxygen.
• Has a cardiac condition to the extent that the person's functional limitations are classified as Class III or Class IV in severity according to standards set by the American Heart Association.
• Is severely limited in their ability to walk and to pedal a bicycle due to an arthritic neurological or orthopedic condition.

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If you plan to bring an e-bike to Mackinac Island, be sure you meet the listed qualifications and carry documentation from your doctor confirming it’s needed for mobility assistance.

👇BELOW: Banned on Mackinac Island👇