Last week, we talked about e-bike safety for teens and younger riders. At Electric Bike Company, safety is one of our top priorities. It’s also why we ship our e-bikes fully assembled—so we can rest assured knowing your bike is road-ready the moment it arrives.
But no matter how much a brand invests in safety, it’s up to parents and caregivers to set kids up for success. If you’re thinking about getting an e-bike for your child, this doctor’s recent warning is an important reminder to pause and assess the decision carefully. Her video went viral for good reason.
Here are a few key concerns she raises:
1. “Kids are riding in flip-flops… without helmets.”
This one is critical. Athletic shoes with proper grip are a must for safe riding, and helmets should be non-negotiable. To make things easier, consider adding a saddlebag or basket with a small lock so your child can always have a place to store their gear when not in use.
2. She also notes that many younger riders lack basic road awareness.
We strongly recommend enrolling your child in a commuter or bike safety class. These are often hosted by local cycling organizations or bike shops. If none are available nearby, online courses are a great alternative. Much like defensive driving, defensive cycling is essential—especially for new or younger riders navigating shared roads.
3. Another concern: kids under 16 riding e-bikes.
We do not recommend allowing children under 16 to operate e-bikes. As the doctor points out, the difference between an e-bike and a small motorcycle is minimal. One has pegs, the other has pedals. One requires a license and registration, the other doesn’t. But both have throttles and similar speed capabilities. It’s a helpful comparison for parents to consider. If your child isn’t old enough to get a driver’s license—or hasn’t completed any formal training—they shouldn’t be riding an e-bike. The same goes for being passengers on a friend’s e-bike.
4. She also raises concerns about riding in traffic and dealing with unpredictable drivers.
This is where your local road infrastructure matters. Before giving the green light, review your child’s intended routes and ask: Are there bike lanes? How bike-friendly is your city? There are reliable safety rankings available for most municipalities, and this should absolutely factor into your decision.
More broadly, it’s worth noting that many teens today are choosing not to get their driver’s licenses at all. For this generation, bikes—and increasingly, e-bikes—are becoming the go-to mode of freedom and transportation. It’s a cultural shift, but one we as parents must prepare for, especially as car ownership becomes more expensive and less essential.
As we know all too well, our kids will eventually venture out into the world on their own. It’s our job to equip them with not only the tools, but also the awareness to stay safe. Don’t take e-bikes lightly—lean on your local community, ask questions, explore local classes, assess infrastructure, and connect with other parents to help set clear, shared expectations around e-bike use.
And if you do decide an e-bike is the right fit for your child, we’re here to help. Our team at Electric Bike Company can walk you through key safety features you can select when customizing your e-bike. While some brands offer e-bikes with motor power above the federal 750-watt limit, EBC does not. We’ll also help you compare safety specs across brands and recommend components based on your teen’s size, riding needs, and experience.
Built with care. Powered by safety. Ready for their next chapter.
