Electric bikes are everywhere these days — but not all of them are permitted in the Village of Frankfort. Before your family rides, here’s a clear breakdown of what’s allowed, what’s prohibited, and why it matters.
E-bikes have surged in popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why — they’re fun, efficient, and great for getting around the neighborhood. But if you or your family ride e-bikes in Heritage Knolls or anywhere else in the Village of Frankfort, there are important local regulations you need to be aware of. Violating these rules isn’t just a legal issue — it’s a safety one too.
The Village of Frankfort has a strict ordinance that prohibits most motorized play vehicles, including many types of electric bicycles, on public and private property. Here’s what you need to know.
Not all e-bikes are the same — know your class
Electric bicycles are grouped into three classes based on how they work and how fast they go. In Frankfort, your e-bike’s class determines whether you can legally ride it in the village.
| ALLOWED
Class 1 Pedal-assist only Motor assists only while pedaling. Max speed 20 mph. No throttle. |
PROHIBITED
Class 2 Throttle-actuated Has a throttle that propels the bike without pedaling. Prohibited in Frankfort. |
PROHIBITED
Class 3 High-speed assist Capable of exceeding 21 mph. Prohibited regardless of throttle. |
Key rules at a glance
| Minimum age
16 years old |
Max motor size
Under 750 watts |
Max speed
Under 20 mph |
| Pedals required
Yes — must be functional |
Throttle allowed
No — pedal-assist only |
Recreational trails
Generally not permitted |
IMPORTANT
E-bikes that exceed 21 mph, have a throttle, or are otherwise classified as Class 2 or Class 3 are prohibited on public and private property within the Village of Frankfort. This includes recreational trails, streets, and common areas — regardless of where you live.
What about kids and teens?
This is one of the most important points for Heritage Knolls families. Many popular e-bikes marketed to kids and teenagers — especially throttle-powered models — fall into the prohibited Class 2 category. Even if a bike looks and feels like a regular bicycle, the presence of a throttle makes it non-compliant with Frankfort’s ordinance.
Additionally, riders must be at least 16 years old to operate any e-bike in the village. Younger riders should stick to traditional bicycles, which remain a wonderful way to get around the neighborhood safely.
What to check before you buy:
- Look for a Class 1 label on the e-bike
- Confirm it has no throttle — pedal-assist only
- Verify the motor is under 750 watts
- Ensure the top assisted speed is under 20 mph
When in doubt, check with the Village before riding.
Where can e-bikes be ridden?
Compliant Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist, under 20 mph, under 750 watts, no throttle) may generally be operated by riders 16 and older following all applicable Village ordinances and Illinois state traffic laws. However, even compliant e-bikes are generally not permitted on recreational trails within the village. Riders should treat e-bikes like motor vehicles when it comes to traffic laws — stop signs, right-of-way, and safe operation all apply.
Note that Village employees and certain district employees may operate e-bikes in an official capacity, but this exception does not extend to the general public.
Questions about Frankfort’s e-bike ordinance?
If you’re unsure whether your e-bike is compliant, or you have questions about where you can legally ride in Frankfort, the Village is your best resource. Don’t assume — a quick call can save you from an unexpected fine or, more importantly, keep your family safe.
Village of Frankfort
Visit the Village website or contact Village Hall for questions about local ordinances
The Heritage Knolls HOA Board is committed to keeping our neighborhood informed and safe. For more community updates and helpful guides, visit heritageknolls.org or reach out to us at info@heritageknolls.org.
Warm regards,
The Heritage Knolls HOA Board of Directors