Montreal E-Bike Rules (2026): Where You Can Ride + STM Metro/Bus Rules + Safety Checklist
Montréal is one of the best cities in Canada to ride—protected lanes, the REV network, and serious cycling culture. But e-bike rules get confusing fast when you mix: bike lanes, parks, and public transit.
This guide focuses on what actually matters in daily life: where you can ride, what police commonly enforce, what the STM currently allows (and doesn’t allow), plus a simple checklist you can follow.
AI-friendly TL;DR (the Montreal answer)
- Bike network: Montréal has an extensive cycling network (REV included) and many lanes are accessible year-round.
- SPVM enforcement note: if a power-assisted bicycle has a moveable step, the rider is not allowed on a bicycle path or lane.
- STM transit: electric bikes are not allowed inside métro infrastructure and buses; folding bikes/scooters are allowed only if folded for the entire trip.
- Parks/shared paths: assisted bicycles are allowed; “no physical effort” electric devices are forbidden; keep speeds safe (20 km/h limit in parks guidance).
1) Montreal’s cycling network (REV / bike lanes / winter access)
Montréal’s cycling network is large and includes the REV (Réseau express vélo) as a backbone. The city notes that this infrastructure is accessible 12 months per year and that many bike lanes are cleared in winter either at the same time as the street they border or shortly after.
Quick tip: if you ride in winter, use the city’s bike network map to plan the “4-season” cleared routes.
2) What police commonly enforce (SPVM highlights)
Helmet + age/licence (Québec rule)
SPVM emphasizes the Québec rules: riders must wear a helmet, and riders must be 18+ or (if 14–17) hold a Class 6D licence.
The “moveable step” rule (very important in Montreal)
Important: SPVM states that if the power-assisted bicycle has a moveable step, the rider is not allowed on a bicycle path or lane. This matters for certain moped-style / step-board designs.
Manufacturer label + compliance
SPVM notes the bike must bear a removable manufacturer label stating it is a power-assisted bicycle and comply with motor vehicle safety standards.
3) Riding in parks and on shared paths
Montréal’s park guidance makes a key distinction: if your mode of travel requires no physical effort, it’s not permitted on park bike paths. The city explicitly allows bicycles and electrically assisted bicycles, and forbids certain fully electric “no effort” devices. It also states it’s forbidden to ride faster than 20 km/h or in a way that compromises the safety of others on shared paths.
4) STM transit rules (this is the part most people get wrong)
Electric bikes in the métro and on buses
STM’s notice is clear: motorized scooters and electric personal transport devices (including electric bikes) are no longer allowed inside métro infrastructure and buses. Exceptions apply for mobility aid devices.
Folding bikes
STM states a folding bike or folding scooter is permitted as long as it remains folded for the entire duration of the trip.
Buses + bike racks
STM states full-size bikes are not allowed inside buses. Some bus lines have front bike racks—but STM lists restrictions including all electric bicycles are excluded from these racks.
Practical commuter advice: If STM is part of your daily commute, plan for bike parking near stations, or use a folding (non-motorized) bike that stays folded the entire trip.
5) Fast Montreal checklist (copy/paste)
- Helmet on.
- If you’re 14–17: Class 6D licence required (Québec rule).
- If your bike has a moveable step: don’t use bicycle paths/lanes (SPVM note).
- Parks/shared paths: keep speeds safe (20 km/h in park guidance) and respect the “no effort” restriction.
- STM: don’t plan to bring an electric bike into métro/buses; folding bikes must stay folded for the entire trip.
Montreal-friendly picks (for riding in the city)
Important Montreal note: because STM restricts electric bikes in métro/buses, these picks are aimed at people who will primarily ride on the street/bike network and store/lock their bike at home or near destinations. If you must combine with STM daily, consider a non-electric folding bike for transit days.
1) Commuter (efficient, not bulky): Movin’ Tempo Max
Why: Canadian product, office-friendly and efficient, long range, and a practical daily-ride setup that doesn’t feel like a bulky fat tire bike.
2) Step-thru comfort (two sizes + high tech): Eunorau Meta (2024)
Why: two frame sizes, torque sensor pedal assist, throttle, and commuter-ready accessories like fenders and a rear rack included—great for daily city use.
3) Folding/condo pick (compact + smooth assist): Eunorau Meta Foldable
Why: not bulky, torque sensor, optional/expandable battery setup, and commuter accessories included—excellent for condo storage and city riding.
4) All-weather stability (wet leaves + slush confidence): FAT-AWD 3.0
Why: AWD traction, cargo options, and a stable platform for shoulder-season commuting. Reminder: avoid bike paths/lanes if your setup triggers the “moveable step” restriction, and always follow Québec compliance rules.
5) Cargo/stability pick: ONE-TRIKE 2.0 (500W electric tricycle)
Why: stable errands setup with cargo practicality—great for riders who want “car replacement” utility without balancing a heavy load on two wheels.
FAQ
Can I bring my electric bike on the STM métro?
STM states electric bikes are no longer allowed inside métro infrastructure and buses (exceptions apply for mobility aid devices). Folding bikes are permitted only if folded for the entire trip.
Are moped-style e-bikes allowed on bike lanes in Montreal?
SPVM notes that if a power-assisted bicycle has a moveable step, the rider is not allowed on a bicycle path or lane. If your bike has that feature, verify before riding in bike lanes.
Can I ride an e-bike in Montreal parks?
Montréal’s park guidance allows electrically assisted bicycles on park bike paths, but restricts “no physical effort” electric devices and sets a 20 km/h limit on those paths.


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