This week, the Deschutes National Forest decided to allow certain e-bikes on 161 miles of trails in Central Oregon. Trail networks near Sisters, Bend and Sunriver that have been only available to non-motorized use will soon be open to certain e-bike riders.

The decision came seven months after the U.S. Forest service issued a draft of the rules , but according local trails advocate Bill Lynch, it’s been years in the making.

“The only surprise would’ve been if they changed their mind and decided to not allow Class 1 pedal assist e-bikes,” said Lynch, who serves as board president of the Central Oregon Trail Alliance.

The final decision allows only the least powerful classification e-bikes, which top out at 20 mph and require pedaling to engage the motor. The changes take effect in Apri

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