In August, Police Chief Shavies gave a presentation to the City Council on the issues he’s seeing with e-bikes in the community. He was concerned about the lack of education around purchasing e-bikes and, in turn, the increased injury risk to younger riders if they’ve purchased an e-bike far more powerful than expected. What is your personal experience with e-bikes and your perspective on whether the city should regulate e-bikes in addition to what the state does?
Nancy Beninati
(NancyforPiedmont.com)
I have never ridden an e-bike, but I help coach the Piedmont High Mountain Bike Team. I believe e-bikes can help more people enjoy cycling and provide an environmentally friendly alternative to driving, particularly in hilly Piedmont.
The Chief’s concerns about safety and education are important. Parents and young riders need to understand the differences between pedal-assist e-bikes and throttle-powered bikes.
Currently, California has no statewide minimum age for throttle- powered bikes, which allow riders to accelerate up to 20 mph without pedaling. Recognizing rising injuries, the Legislature authorized a pilot program in Marin County permitting local jurisdictions to prohibit riders under 16 from using these throttle- powered bikes and requiring helmets for all riders. In support, e-bike advocates argued that throttle-powered bikes pose greater safety risks because they can accelerate from zero to 20 mph in 10 seconds with a simple push of the throttle. In contrast, pedal-assist e-bikes require riders to pedal to engage the motor, limiting how quickly they accelerate.
Given these safety concerns, Piedmont should explore a similar measure while evaluating the legal authority, safety benefits, and practical implications. We should also prioritize education, parental awareness, and enforcement of existing laws, while also drawing on other jurisdictions’ experiences.
