Food for Thought: Navigating E-Bikes, E-Motos, and Municipal Authority

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As electric bikes become more common, municipalities are facing growing questions about safety, enforcement, infrastructure, and local regulation. But not every electric two-wheeled vehicle is an e-bike—and understanding the difference is the key to making informed policy decisions.

Join the League of Wisconsin Municipalities and Bike Fed Wisconsin for a practical discussion that separates fact from fiction. You'll learn how Wisconsin law defines Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes, why unclassified "e-motos" are creating confusion, what municipalities can and cannot regulate under current law, and how education and community partnerships can improve safety. You'll also leave with resources and real-world examples to help your community respond thoughtfully and effectively.

Jake Newborn

Assistant Director

Wisconsin Bike Fed

Jake has been with the Bike Fed since 2007. He has worked on a large variety of education programs, events, and advocacy issues across the state. Based in Milwaukee, he enjoys biking with his daughter to school, going on family bike camping trips, and riding his cargo bike to Brewers games and the golf course. Jake is a League of American Bicyclists Coach helping to train more certified cycling educators across Wisconsin.

Mike Ridgeman

Government Affairs Manager

Wisconsin Bike Fed

Mike joins the Wisconsin Bike Fed after several years working on cycling-based advocacy initiatives in the bike industry. Prior to that, he was a teacher at the secondary and post-secondary levels. His background demonstrates a desire to work in the service of others, and this position at the Bike Fed will allow him to continue this important work. If he’s not at his desk, you’re likely to find him reading a book, playing guitar, or riding his bike.

Ryan Sendelbach

Assistant General Counsel

The League of Wisconsin Municipalities

Ryan Sendelbach joined the League in 2023 as Assistant General Counsel, providing legal support to municipal attorneys and officials through inquiries, opinions, amicus briefs, workshops, and publications. He also contributes to League handbooks and helps plan the annual municipal attorneys institute. Ryan earned his undergraduate degree from UW-Madison with majors in political science, economics, and history and graduated cum laude from UW Law School. During law school, he worked with the Law & Entrepreneurship Clinic, served as a managing editor for the Wisconsin International Law Journal, and conducted research on interlocal TIF competition following a question from the League.