There’s a growing movement quietly transforming the way people experience Memphis, and it’s happening on two wheels. What began as weekend rides with a few friends has grown into a network of e-bike enthusiasts discovering the city’s green spaces, food, and culture through a new lens.
Whether you’re looking to cover more ground without overexerting yourself, or seeking a healthier, more connected way to get around, e-biking in Memphis offers a fresh and compelling alternative.
Why I Chose E-Biking
My transition to e-biking came out of a desire to explore more of Memphis with less strain. My friends and I, a mix of former mountain biking regulars and a few new riders, wanted to go farther while still having fun. We chose fat-tire bikes for their trail capabilities and versatility. I personally ride a Damson Burchda R5 Pro, which offers excellent stability, long battery life (up to 60 miles on PAS 1), and affordability. Two of my friends opted for Lectric XP 3.0s and three others ride Aventon models.
Our group has grown steadily; we’ve met up with as many as 15 riders at once. For some added fun, several of us have Sena Helmets with open comms to stay connected. What started as a hobby has turned into a mini-community.
It’s not unusual to strike up conversations with curious onlookers or fellow cyclists at breweries and trailheads.
Best Trails in the City
Our typical rides start on the Wolf River Greenway and connect into the Shelby Farms Greenline, giving us flexible options to ride west toward Midtown or east to Cordova and beyond.
Paved Paths:
The Greenline recently expanded eastward toward Lakeland, adding around seven miles of smooth pavement. With recent expansions, it’s now possible to ride uninterrupted from either Lakeland via the Greenline or WC Johnson Park via the Wolf River Greenway. Both routes can connect you all the way to the West Memphis Delta Regional River Park using Big River Crossing—a round trip that’s scenic, safe, and surprisingly achievable on an e-bike.
Dirt Trails:
My personal favorite is the Yellow Trail in Shelby Farms. It’s a moderate, scenic route that offers a true off-road experience, though recent flooding has impacted some sections. For newer riders, Overton Park provides a gentler experience, and Nesbit Park (Stanky Creek) is ideal for those looking for more technical challenges.
A quick note for newcomers: Google Maps often doesn’t reflect the full extent of paved trails in Memphis. There are significantly more than what’s depicted.
Hidden Gems and Scenic Views
From cityscapes to wooded escapes, Memphis has much to offer from the seat of a bike. Big River Crossing provides stunning views of the skyline and river. At Shelby Farms, there are numerous peaceful lookout points and quiet stretches that offer a true retreat from the city, without ever leaving it.
We’ve even used our e-bikes to transport disc golf gear to the Shelby Farms course—just another example of how versatile these rides are.
Refueling: Bike-Friendly Local Favorites
Our rides often revolve around destinations. Some of the best include:
Hampline Brewing –
Brick oven pizza, bike racks, and a frequent gathering point for e-bikers.
Wiseacre OG –
Known for its vibrant atmosphere, this brewery is evolving its food options. With a new kitchen on the horizon and Halinka’s Polish food still making regular appearances, it remains a go-to stop mid-ride.
El Mero Taco (Cordova) –
The Cordova brick-and-mortar is already a go-to, and soon there’ll be even more to love. Opening this September at Mullins Station and Farm Road in Shelby Farms, the new location sits right at the junction of several trails. Beyond tacos, expect game days, movies, live music, and even guest food trucks like Say Cheese, making it a true trail-side hub for riders.
City and State –
A great Midtown coffee stop to start or end your ride.
Latting Speed Shop –
Excellent coffee and the added bonus of a full-service bike shop.
Crosstown Concourse & Crosstown Brewing –
Bike racks, lots of great food, and often festivals or other events in the concourse.
High Point Pizza –
Easily accessible and perfect for a post-ride meal.
Rollin’ Cafe –
Get there early enough and you’ll earn a cinnamon roll that rivals the ride.
What these businesses have in common—aside from great food and drinks—is proximity to trails and a welcoming approach to cyclists. Still, we’d love to see more businesses install bike racks, especially as interest in biking continues to grow.
Tips for First-Time E-Bikers
Know your bike.
E-bikes are heavier and more responsive than traditional bikes.
Wear safety gear.
Helmets with built-in comms have made our group rides smoother and safer.
Learn basic maintenance.
Carry a tool kit and know how to reset a chain.
Practice trail etiquette.
Use a bell or call out ‘On your left’ when passing to ensure everyone’s safety.
The Future of Biking in Memphis
Memphis is making progress, but there’s more to be done. We’d love to see better trail connectivity. More paved routes to key destinations. Increased bike racks at local businesses.
While more dedicated lanes and safety improvements are needed, the expansion of the Greenline and the continued maintenance of the Greenway are encouraging signs.
The groundwork is here; now it’s about connecting the dots.
Where to Start
If you’re new to the scene, start at Shelby Farms Park on the Greenline. You’ll find well-maintained paths, beautiful scenery, and easy connections to the rest of the city. With a little planning and the right bike, you can explore miles of Memphis on your own schedule.
The more we ride, the more we shape Memphis into a city built for movement, connection, and exploration. Whether you ride for the views, the food, the company, or the thrill of the trail—there’s a place for you here.
This blog was written by Stephen Krassick
