A typical moped-like Class 3 E-bike.
At FABB, we work hard to promote safe, accessible, and welcoming trails for all. But we need your help—especially as misuse of our trails by motorized vehicles and reckless riders becomes a growing concern across Fairfax and Northern Virginia.
Recently, a local rider reported a dangerous encounter on the W&OD Trail near the Sterling/Herndon line: two teenagers on gas-powered dirt bikes sped past at roughly 30 mph. These vehicles are not only illegal on our trails—they’re a serious threat to the safety of people biking, walking, running, or rolling.
We’ve also heard increasing reports about large, motorcycle-like e-bikes zipping down the trail at unsafe speeds. Some of these may resemble mopeds or small motorbikes, but they still use the trail—often without regard to trail etiquette or legal limits.
What the Law Says
Virginia state law divides electric bicycles into three classes:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with no throttle, max speed of 20 mph.
- Class 2: Throttle-assisted, also capped at 20 mph.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist only, max speed of 28 mph, and not allowed on shared-use paths or trails unless authorized by local ordinance.
Under Virginia Code § 46.2-100, e-bikes are not considered motor vehicles, and Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are generally permitted on shared-use paths, like the W&OD. However, gas-powered vehicles, including dirt bikes and ATVs, are strictly prohibited on these trails.
The Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority (NOVA Parks), which manages the W&OD Trail, enforces these restrictions, and all users are expected to obey posted speed limits (15 mph on most trail segments) and yield appropriately.
What You Can Do
First, we encourage everyone to ride responsibly and safely. Set the example for others and uphold riders’ good reputation with other trail users. If you witness illegal or dangerous activity on a trail:
- Report it immediately to local law enforcement or the appropriate trail authority:
- On the W&OD Trail, contact NOVA Parks here or the local non-emergency police line at (703) 691-2131.
- Note the time, location, and description of the individuals or vehicles involved.
- Contact your Fairfax County District Supervisor to ask for increased patrols and better enforcement of trail rules. Find your supervisor here.
- Educate and encourage others to ride responsibly. Many trail users simply don’t know the rules.
- Support better signage and trail design that clarifies who can ride where—and how fast.
A Long-Term Problem
Unchecked misuse of our trails isn’t just a safety risk—it undermines the long-term viability of biking and walking as healthy, low-carbon alternatives to driving. If families and new riders don’t feel safe, they won’t use our trails and support for more trails and trail improvements will dwindle.
Advocate. Act. Amplify.
Fairfax County has made progress, but enforcement and community engagement are key to ensuring our trail system works for everyone. Let’s protect our shared spaces—and each other.
Have you seen something dangerous on your ride? Let us know at [email protected] and we’ll help elevate your concerns.
Want to support trail safety and smarter active transportation policy? Join FABB, volunteer, or donate to keep our work going. Together, we can ensure that trails like the W&OD remain places where everyone—no matter their age or ability—can ride safely.
