Riding a bike, walking or using a wheelchair on your neighborhood sidewalks can be a safe and convenient way to get around, but only if everyone follows the laws. Whether you are on the sidewalk or driving near a bicyclist or pedestrian, always be aware of your surroundings and keep the state laws in mind. 

Bicycle laws 

If you’re riding a bicycle, you must: 

• Obey all traffic control signs and signals, just as you would when driving.
  • The only exception is that bicyclists may treat stop signs as yield signs when the intersection is clear.

• Use signals, if able, to let people behind you know when you're turning. 

• Use good judgment. Remember that you are sharing the road, and it is important to be predictable to avoid a crash. 

• Use a headlight and rear reflectors when it's dark. 

If you are driving near a bicyclist: 

• Stay three feet away when passing. 

Read more about Minnesota’s bicycle laws.    

E-bike laws 

Under Minnesota law, a legal electric-assisted bicycle must meet all of the following requirements: 

• The motor must not exceed 750 watts of power.
• The maximum assisted speed must not exceed 28 miles per hour.
• The bicycle must have fully functional pedals that can be used to propel the bike. 

Any vehicle that does not meet these requirements is not considered an e-bike under Minnesota law. Any modification that increases speed or increased the motor output may be unlawful.

Age restrictions also apply. Even legal e-bikes may not be operated by anyone under the age of 15. 

Read the full statute for more information.

Pedestrian laws 

• If you are driving, you must stop for pedestrians crossing the street. Treat every corner and intersection as a crosswalk, whether it’s marked or unmarked, and let pedestrians cross. 

• If you are a pedestrian, you must obey traffic control devices, such as traffic lights, signs and barricades.