eMTB Policy Review

May 26, 2021

The rapid increase of electric Mountain Bikes (eMTB) has sparked crucial dialogue within the trail recreation community. As we have all experienced, these conversations can be controversial and divisive. The growing pressures of the eMTB industry and user group are challenging trail networks to take a firm stance on whether to allow eMTBs or not. Kingdom Trails now finds itself in this position. eMTBs have been identified by both the KT Landowner and Trail Advisory Committees as a topic that needs further examination and a more delineated response. We have also heard many passionate opinions on the subject from KT trail users. KT has therefore begun an intensive review of this issue, the goal being the most responsible and sustainable decision for our community.

We believe community members, trail users, and most importantly our landowners should be engaged in this decision. The KT Team began with a preliminary discussion with our Board of Directors regarding a proper decision making process. This process was then presented to the Landowner Advisory Committee. Their response was positive, and they were pleased that KT Landowners will be involved and the policy shaped by their feedback. Kingdom Trails has invited all of the KT Landowners to a forum in early June.

As cycling technology and trail utilization trends evolve, we believe it is imperative that KT periodically review and consider policy changes. eMTBs are a prime example. Currently Kingdom Trails’ eMTB policy is stated as “KT does not allow e-bikes on our trail network” as we honor the no motorized vehicle agreement we have made with our Landowners. Please know this continues to be our policy throughout this process.

We understand there are a number of pros and cons that need to be weighed. On the one hand, allowing eMTBs could broaden access for those with physical limitations due to age, illness and disability, supporting our commitment to equity and inclusion. Increased patronage could also directly benefit our community and the region. On the other hand, concerns could arise regarding faster speeds, user conflicts, injuries and liability, land impacts, and overcrowding. We will need to educate ourselves on the different classes of eMTBs, review the decisions and policies of other trail networks, consult organizations such as IMBA, NEMBA, and VMBA, and explore both federal and state policies, along with the detail of our own conservation easements with the Vermont Land Trust and Vermont Housing Conservation Board. However, above all, gauging our landowners' comfortability with eMTBs on their land will be a priority.

We encourage all to share their thoughts and opinions by emailing eMTB@kingdomtrails.org. Your feedback is welcomed and we thank you in advance for participating in this deliberative process with civility, and we especially encourage experience based input. Again, we ask that you email with your feedback, therefore we are turning off our social media comments on this topic as the goal is to receive constructive input directly from our stakeholders for thoughtful consideration and we do not wish to host a platform for negative interactions between people. We anticipate this review and policy update will conclude within the middle of this summer season.

Please remember, regardless of whether or not Kingdom Trails amends our policy, we understand education will be a key component to maintaining respect for our private landowners and encouraging all to Ride with Gratitude.

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