HOA 101: Klahanie's New E-Bike & E-Motorcycle Policy

 Klahanie’s trails and parks are one of the things many residents value most about living here. They connect our neighborhoods, give families places to walk and ride, and help make Klahanie feel like the community it is. Keeping them safe and enjoyable for everyone is something residents feel strongly about, and that is exactly why the Board adopted a new E-Bike and E-Motorcycle Policy.

Over the past year, the Association received feedback from residents concerned about unsafe riding behavior on Klahanie trails, pathways, sidewalks, and around our playgrounds, particularly involving faster electric-powered bikes. The Board listened. This policy gives families in Klahanie a clear set of expectations because our shared spaces are used by neighbors of all ages, and keeping them safe for everyone is what matters most.

A Note to Parents

If your child rides an e-bike in Klahanie, this policy is especially important for your family. Our shared spaces are used by walkers, runners, children, and pets of all ages. Please take a few minutes to review these rules with your child so they understand where e-bikes are allowed, where they are not allowed, how fast they should travel, and how to safely share our common areas with others. A short conversation can help prevent injuries and avoid problems throughout the Klahanie property.

What Is an E-Bike?

Under Washington State law (RCW 46.04.169), an e-bike is a bicycle with fully operative pedals and an electric motor of no more than 750 watts. All e-bikes sold in Washington must carry a permanent label showing their classification, top assisted speed, and motor wattage. There are three classes, and the class determines where the bike may be used in Klahanie.

Class 1 e-bikes assist only when the rider is pedaling and cut off assistance at 20 mph. Class 2 e-bikes can be propelled by a throttle alone, also cutting off at 20 mph. Class 3 e-bikes assist only when pedaling but can reach 28 mph and must have a speedometer.

One firm rule applies to all three classes: modifying an e-bike to exceed the manufacturer's speed or power specifications is prohibited on Association property.

Where E-Bikes Are Permitted

Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are allowed on Klahanie's paved trails and sidewalks, unless posted otherwise. Class 3 e-bikes are more limited. Under state law, they are generally restricted from shared-use pathways and sidewalks unless there is no safe alternative.

Where E-Bikes Are Prohibited

All e-bikes, regardless of class, are prohibited in the following areas:

•       Soft-surface or unpaved trails (i.e., Yellow Lake)

•       Boardwalks and the dock

•       Environmentally sensitive areas

•       Pool deck areas and pool facilities

•       All basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts

•       Playground areas

Speed Limits and Safe Riding

The speed limit for e-bikes on Klahanie property is up to 15 mph. That is the standard the City of Sammamish applies to shared-use facilities, and it is the standard here. Riders are also expected to slow down when pedestrians, children, pets, or other trail users are nearby. The policy requires riders to yield to pedestrians, give an audible warning when passing, and maintain safe distances from others at all times.

Age Restrictions

There are no state-mandated age restrictions for Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes. Washington State law does prohibit anyone under 16 from operating a Class 3 e-bike, unless riding as a passenger.

Safety Requirements

Helmets are required under the City of Sammamish Municipal Code, and the Association strongly recommends that all e-bike riders wear an approved protective helmet.

What About E-Motorcycles?

E-motorcycles are not the same as e-bikes. They often have motors greater than 750 watts, may not have fully operative pedals, and can exceed e-bike speed limits. Because Washington State classifies them as motor vehicles, they require licensing, registration, and insurance. Under Klahanie’s policy, e-motorcycles are not allowed on Association trails, pathways, parks, sidewalks, or other common areas. If they are street legal, they must follow standard traffic laws and may only be operated on public roads.

Enforcement

As with many Association rules, the goal is education first. For most first-time violations, the Association will prioritize a warning and conversation rather than a fine, unless the riding is reckless or creates an immediate safety risk. Residents who observe unsafe or prohibited riding on Association property can contact the Klahanie office. Emergencies should always be reported to 911. Non-emergency incidents on public property can be reported to King County at (206) 296-3311.

Our trails and shared spaces are something special. Let's keep them that way.  For information about e-bikes and e-motorcycles in the City of Sammamish, please follow this link.

This article is part of the HOA 101 series in the Klahanie Newsletter, designed to explain how the Association works and help residents better understand the rules, responsibilities, and shared spaces that shape our community.

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