Arkansas E-Bike Classes: Velotric & Ride1Up

Choosing an electric bike should be about more than finding a bike with a powerful motor or a long-lasting battery. Riders in Arkansas also need to understand how e-bike classifications work, where different classes are permitted, and how to choose a bike that fits their everyday needs.

At OZ E-Bikes, we help riders throughout Northwest Arkansas find electric bikes that fit their lifestyle, budget, and riding plans. With our selection of Velotric e-bikes and our newly expanded lineup of Ride1Up electric bikes, we offer more options for commuting, exploring the Razorback Greenway, riding local trails, and enjoying everything Northwest Arkansas has to offer.

Many Velotric models feature adjustable riding modes that allow riders to configure their bikes for different riding situations. Select Ride1Up models also offer class-switching capabilities. Understanding these features can help you make an informed purchase and get more out of your investment.

We also help customers navigate the Bentonville E-Bike Rebate Program and the Arkansas Tri-Region E-Bike Voucher Program, with qualifying models from both brands available through participating retailers. Eligibility varies by program and model, so our team can help you check the details before purchasing.

Let’s explore the three classes of electric bikes, what makes them different, and which new models you should know about in 2026.

Understanding the Three Classes of E-Bikes in Arkansas

Arkansas recognizes three primary classes of electric bicycles. The classifications are based on how the motor provides assistance and the maximum speed at which that assistance operates.

Under Arkansas law, an e-bike must have fully operable pedals and an electric motor rated at less than 750 watts to qualify under the state’s electric bicycle definitions. A bike that falls outside those requirements may be subject to different vehicle rules.

Here is how the three classes compare.

Class 1 E-Bikes: Pedal Assist Up to 20 MPH

A Class 1 electric bike provides motor assistance only while the rider pedals. The motor stops assisting when the bike reaches 20 miles per hour.

These bikes are a popular choice for riders who want an experience that feels similar to traditional cycling, with additional assistance for hills, headwinds, and longer rides.

Class 1 e-bikes are worth considering for:

Recreational rides on approved multi-use paths.
Exploring the Razorback Greenway and most importantly the OZ Trails System.
Riding designated mountain bike trails where e-bikes are permitted.
Commuting without relying entirely on motor power.
Riders who want assistance while continuing to pedal.

For riders interested in electric mountain biking, Class 1 is particularly important because many trail systems have specific rules about which e-bike classes are allowed.

Always check the regulations for the individual trail system before riding.

Class 2 E-Bikes: Pedal Assist and Throttle Up to 20 MPH

Class 2 electric bikes can provide motor assistance through pedaling or a throttle. The motor can propel the bike without pedaling, but its assistance is limited to 20 miles per hour.

The throttle is a useful feature for riders who want to get moving from a stop, manage certain hills, or take a break from pedaling when needed.

Class 2 e-bikes can be a good fit for:

Everyday commuting.
Neighborhood rides and errands.
Trips to local shops and restaurants.
Recreational rides on permitted paths.
Riders who appreciate the flexibility of throttle assistance.

For example, a rider exploring downtown Bentonville may appreciate having a throttle available when starting at an intersection or getting underway after a stop.

However, a Class 2 designation does not automatically mean a bike is permitted on every bicycle trail. Some locations restrict throttle-equipped e-bikes even when they are legal to operate elsewhere.

Class 3 E-Bikes: Pedal Assist Up to 28 MPH

A Class 3 electric bike provides motor assistance only while the rider pedals, with assistance stopping at 28 miles per hour.

Class 3 models are often attractive to commuters who travel longer distances or want to maintain a higher assisted speed on suitable roads.

Potential uses include:

Longer commutes.
Traveling between neighborhoods.
Riding on roads where higher assisted speeds are appropriate.
Getting across town more efficiently.

One important distinction: under the standard three-class definitions, Class 3 pedal assistance stops at 28 mph, but the throttle on a conventional Class 3 bike does not provide assistance above the Class 2 limit of 20 mph. Individual models may have additional configuration rules.

Class 3 e-bikes are not automatically allowed on all multi-use paths or mountain bike trails. Riders should check local restrictions and posted rules before taking a Class 3 bike onto a trail.

Why E-Bike Classifications Matter on Arkansas Trails

Northwest Arkansas has become a destination for cyclists, with a growing network of paved paths, mountain bike trails, and connections between communities.

The Razorback Greenway, Bentonville’s trail network, and the surrounding OZ Trails region offer opportunities for a wide range of riders. But these riding environments do not necessarily have identical rules.

For example, Arkansas state park regulations allow Class 1 pedal-assist bicycles on designated bicycle trails, while restricting Class 2 e-bikes and Class 3 pedal-assist bicycles on mountain bike trails and certain multi-use paths within state parks.

Rules on municipal trails, privately managed trail systems, and other public lands may differ.

Before riding, consider three questions:

What class is my e-bike currently configured to use?
Does the trail or path permit that class?
Are there additional restrictions imposed by the local trail manager?

This is particularly important for families, visitors, and new e-bike owners who may assume that every electric bicycle is treated the same way.

At OZ E-Bikes, we want our customers to understand their bikes before they head out. Our team can explain the differences between the classes and help you identify the questions to ask about your intended riding locations.

One Bike, Multiple Riding Configurations: The Benefits of Adjustable-Class E-Bikes

One of the most useful features available on select modern e-bikes is the ability to change the bike’s classification through its settings.

Rather than purchasing separate bikes for different riding situations, riders may be able to configure a compatible model for Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 operation.

For example, someone might want throttle assistance for everyday errands but prefer a pedal-assist-only configuration for a location that permits Class 1 e-bikes.

A commuter might also appreciate the option of configuring a compatible bike for Class 3 assistance on an appropriate road, then selecting a lower-speed setting for other rides.

The key is that not every e-bike can switch between all three classes. Capabilities depend on the specific model, its motor and controller, and the manufacturer’s approved settings.

Changing the maximum assistance speed alone does not necessarily change a bike’s legal classification. A Class 2 bike with its throttle unused, for example, does not automatically become a Class 1 bike. The bike must meet the requirements of the class in question, including how its motor operates.

Velotric: Flexible Settings for Different Riders

Velotric has built a reputation for offering feature-rich electric bikes with configurable riding settings on select models. Certain models can be adjusted between supported Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 configurations.

That flexibility can be useful for riders whose needs change depending on where they travel. A customer might prioritize throttle assistance for errands, pedal assistance for exercise, or a higher assisted speed for commuting.

Before buying, ask our team which configurations your preferred Velotric model supports and how to select them correctly.

Ride1Up: More Choices for Arkansas Riders

OZ E-Bikes is also excited to introduce Ride1Up electric bikes to our lineup.

Ride1Up offers models for commuting, recreational riding, and other everyday uses. Its classification options vary by model: some bikes are sold as Class 2 and can be switched to Class 3, while other models are Class 3 only.

This means it’s important to check the specifications for the exact Ride1Up bike you’re considering rather than assuming every model offers the same flexibility.

Our goal is to help you compare your options, understand the controls, and choose a bike that suits your needs and the places you plan to ride.

Meet the New Velotric E-Bikes for 2026

Velotric expanded its lineup in 2026 with five new models designed for different types of riders. From comfortable daily transportation to mixed-terrain adventures, the new range gives customers more choices when shopping for an e-bike.

Here are five models worth exploring.

1. Velotric Discover 3: Comfort for Everyday Riding

The Discover 3 is the next generation of Velotric’s comfort-focused commuter series.

It is designed for riders who want an upright, comfortable riding position and a versatile bike for errands, commuting, and recreational outings. The model features a 750W internal-rotor motor, 75 Nm of torque, and Velotric’s ComfortMax ergonomics.

For riders who want one bike for everyday transportation and weekend exploration, the Discover 3 is worth considering.

It may be a good option for commuting around Rogers or Bentonville, visiting local businesses, and enjoying paved paths where the bike’s current configuration is permitted.

2. Velotric Discover M: A Mid-Drive Commuter

The Discover M introduces a mid-drive motor to Velotric’s comfort-oriented commuter range.

Mid-drive motors deliver power through the bicycle’s drivetrain, making them a different option from the hub-drive systems found on many e-bikes. Riders may appreciate the natural-feeling power delivery and the way a mid-drive system works with the bike’s gearing.

The Discover M is aimed at riders seeking a more premium commuting experience, especially those who want to combine comfort with efficient performance.

If you’re comparing motor styles, our team can help explain the differences between mid-drive and hub-drive systems.

3. Velotric Tempo: A Lightweight City E-Bike

The Tempo is designed for riders who want a lighter, streamlined option for city riding.

A lighter bike can be easier to maneuver, park, and handle during everyday use. For commuters and recreational cyclists who want electric assistance without a bulky utility-bike feel, the Tempo is worth a closer look.

It is an option to consider for trips around town, short commutes, and recreational rides on approved routes.

4. Velotric Summit 2: For Mixed-Terrain Adventures

The Summit 2 is designed for mixed-terrain riding, bridging everyday cycling and light trail use.

For riders in Northwest Arkansas, that versatility can be appealing. You may want to ride neighborhood streets, paved paths, and suitable unpaved routes without buying a dedicated bike for every activity.

Remember that a bike’s ability to handle a surface does not determine whether it is legally permitted on a particular trail. Check the trail manager’s rules and the bike’s classification before heading out.

5. Velotric GoMad: An All-Terrain Utility E-Bike

The GoMad is Velotric’s new all-terrain utility model for 2026.

It is designed for riders who want a versatile bike for everyday transportation and a broader range of surfaces. Utility-oriented designs can appeal to people who want to combine errands, recreational riding, and practical transportation.

When comparing the GoMad with other models, consider how you plan to use the bike, how you want it to feel under load, and whether its size and features suit your needs.

Which Velotric Should You Choose?

The best model depends on what you want your e-bike to do.

Daily comfort and commuting: Explore the Discover 3.
A premium mid-drive experience: Consider the Discover M.
A lighter city bike: Look at the Tempo.
Pavement and suitable light trails: Explore the Summit 2.
Everyday utility and mixed-surface versatility: Consider the GoMad.

Specifications, availability, and supported class configurations vary by model. Contact OZ E-Bikes to confirm current inventory and the details of the model you’re interested in.

Introducing Ride1Up at OZ E-Bikes

We’re pleased to give Arkansas riders access to another electric bike brand with the addition of Ride1Up at OZ E-Bikes.

Ride1Up offers a range of e-bikes with different riding positions, frame styles, motor systems, and intended uses. Its lineup includes options for urban commuting, recreational riding, and utility-focused transportation.

The important thing is to match the model to your priorities.

Do you need a bike for a daily commute? Are you looking for a comfortable way to explore Northwest Arkansas? Do you want a compact bike for easier storage, or a model designed for a particular riding style?

These questions can help narrow down your options.

Ride1Up’s class configurations also differ across its lineup. Some models support switching between Class 2 and Class 3, while others are designed for Class 3 operation. Our team can help you understand those differences before you purchase.

Having both Velotric and Ride1Up available gives customers more choices to compare in one place.

Save on Your E-Bike with Arkansas Rebate Voucher Programs

Buying an electric bike can be a significant investment, and eligible rebate programs may help reduce the upfront cost.

OZ E-Bikes is participating in the Arkansas Tri-Region E-Bike Voucher Program and can help customers explore qualifying models. The program serves eligible residents in Northwest Arkansas, Fort Smith, and the Little Rock–Conway region.

The City of Bentonville also operates a separate E-Bike Rebate Program for eligible Bentonville residents.

These are separate programs with their own residency requirements, application processes, and participating-retailer rules. Receiving a voucher is not guaranteed simply by registering, and each program has its own requirements for redeeming a voucher.

Are Velotric and Ride1Up Bikes Eligible?

Many Velotric models and most Ride1Up models may be approved under the applicable voucher program. However, eligibility is determined by the specific program’s current approved-bike list and requirements.

Do not assume that every model from either brand qualifies, or that approval under one program automatically means approval under the other.

Before purchasing, confirm:

Whether your chosen model is on the approved list.
Whether the retailer and bike meet the program’s requirements.
Whether your residency and application meet the eligibility rules.
The voucher’s value, expiration date, and redemption conditions.
Whether any required class, equipment, or assembly conditions apply.

Our team can help you review these details so you can make an informed decision before spending your voucher.

Why Shop Locally at OZ E-Bikes?

When you’re using a rebate toward a new electric bike, choosing the right model matters. You want a bike that suits your needs long after the initial purchase.

At OZ E-Bikes, we offer local support and an opportunity to explore different models with knowledgeable staff. Depending on the model and availability, you may be able to see a bike in person or arrange a demo before making your decision.

We can also discuss the differences between brands, motor systems, frame styles, and class configurations.

Our aim is to help you choose a bike that fits your lifestyle, rather than simply choosing a model because it appears on a rebate list.

Visit our website to learn more about our electric bikes for sale and ask us about current voucher-eligible models.

Visit OZ E-Bikes in Rogers or Bentonville

Whether you’re new to e-bikes or ready to upgrade, OZ E-Bikes is here to help you find the right ride.

With locations in Downtown Rogers and Downtown Bentonville, we serve riders throughout Northwest Arkansas and surrounding areas. Our selection of Velotric and Ride1Up e-bikes gives you more options to explore, compare, and consider.

Stop by to talk with our team about:

The differences between Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 e-bikes.
Which models support class switching.
Choosing a bike for commuting, recreation, or mixed-terrain riding.
Trail rules and where to verify permitted e-bike classes.
Current Bentonville and Tri-Region voucher requirements.
Available models and opportunities to test ride.

An e-bike can make everyday transportation more enjoyable and open up new ways to experience Northwest Arkansas. The right choice starts with understanding your needs, the bike’s capabilities, and the rules where you plan to ride.

Ready to find your next e-bike? Visit OZ E-Bikes in Downtown Rogers or Downtown Bentonville, or explore our selection at oznwa.com. Let us help you compare Velotric and Ride1Up models and make the most of your e-bike purchase.

Ride informed. Ride responsibly. Ride with OZ E-Bikes.