BUFFALO TWP — Electric-assist bicycles are now permitted on the Butler-Freeport Community Trail.

Township supervisors voted unanimously to allow the bikes on the trail as recommended by Chris Ziegler, trail president.

Gary Risch, vice president of the board of supervisors, said allowing the bikes, which have a rechargeable battery, will give older trail enthusiasts and those with physical limitations an opportunity to enjoy the 19.5-mile trail.

“That's what it's there for,” Risch said.

According to the trail's website, only “pedalcycles with electric assist” meeting certain specifications are permitted on the trail.

The cycles' maximum weight must be 100 pounds with two or three wheels no more than 11 inches in diameter and operable pedals.

The electric motor's maximum rating is 750 watts and the cycle's maximum speed is 20 mph on a level surface when powered by the motor only.

Those who ride e-bikes must be at least 16 years old.

E-bikes are subject to the same rules, regulations, ordinances and laws that apply to regular bicycles, the online announcement states.

Ziegler said she has not seen any e-bikes on the trail yet, but she attributes that to unfavorable weather so far this spring.

She said the Armstrong Trail and the Redbank Valley Trail in Armstrong County have e-bike policies, and riders have asked her to recommend such a policy for the Butler-Freeport Trail.

Ziegler also said she has received emails from older bike enthusiasts who cannot navigate on a pedal bike anymore, but who ride an e-bike.

“It allows anybody who needs assistance to use the trail,” Ziegler said. “More trail users is always a good thing for us.”

Guided hike

She said a guided hike also is planned for 9 a.m. Saturday. Those who only can do the four-mile stretch from the Laneville Trailhead to Monroe Road should register with Ziegler by Thursday evening so she can schedule a shuttle service.

Walkers are also welcome to hike both ways.

The guide will discuss historical points on the trail as well as wildlife, plants and other subjects.

Several more hikes will be held throughout the summer and fall, Ziegler said.

To register, email Ziegler at butlerfreeporttrail@yahoo.com.