From Highway Patrol safety and training courses to new city regulations, lawmakers are working to keep commuters and recreational riders safe as the popularity of e-bikes continues to grow.
Helmets, informational labels, speed limits, pedestrians…there are lots of considerations when rolling out. EBC recommends to always check with your local laws, but the following is fundamental e-bike etiquette that will get your rolling in the right direction.
- Helmets. Most laws require e-bike riders younger than 18 to wear helmets, but really, protecting your head with a helmet (no matter your age) is e-bike etiquette 101.
- Info label. All e-bikes manufactured after 2017 come with an affixed label with information on classification number, top speed, and motor wattage. This label should not be removed. In most states, it’s required by law.
- Stick to your lane. Proper e-bike etiquette requires that bikes should not be ridden on sidewalks or pedestrian-only roads. Additionally, it’s good to stay off grass areas, parks, plazas, and other areas where people gather on foot and aren’t expecting an e-bike to roll through.
- See the signs. It’s easy to feel free as a bird on an e-bike, but it’s essential to pay attention to road signs and abide by traffic signals.
- Feet first. Pedestrians always have the right away. Good e-bike etiquette ensures all riders yield to pedestrians.
- Mindful MPH. Some e-bikes can exceed 25 mph, but it’s a good rule of thumb to keep the speed around 15 mph when on bike trails and 8 mph when on merged bike/pedestrian trails.
EBC is committed to making e-biking the best experience for everyone on the trail and encourages all EBC riders to practice good etiquette. We do our part by producing the best American-made, custom-built electric cruisers in the world. Using the highest quality, globally sourced materials and components, employing talented local bike builders, inspecting and testing every e-bike, and constantly innovating to ensure safe, secure, and exceptional rides. Be an EBC e-bike etiquette champion and check your local laws for the most relevant e-bike rules and regulations in your community.
