CFN – E Bikes are booming across the world and here in Cornwall Ontario are under debate as to how to regulate them on city bike paths and in areas. Right now they are in a grey area.
The big issue is modifications? Do we want our police sniffing to see if a bike still has pedals or is modded to exceed speeds of over 50 KPH??
This video below shows an E Bike that hit an alleged speed of 103 KPH!!
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I spoke with Cornwall Police Chief Dan Parkinson last week about e-bikes. We also discussed some misconceptions about laws and use of bikes and E-Bikes.
Apologies for the video portion of the clip as we had a technical difficulty, but the audio was saves.
Even China is having issues with E-bikes with suggestions of permits and regulations.
For most users E- Bikes are a terrific option. You peddle as normal, but if you get tired or need assistance you just crank the handle and go. I tested one out myself and it was wonderful.
The issues become when users cross the lines and mod them or drive them in an abusive manner.
What do you think? Should E-Bikes be regulated and licensed? Should they be banned from certain areas?
You can post your comments below.
How many tires did you pop Jamie? (Attempt at humor)
now there are pros and cons of ebikes yes alot of ebikes are used in cornwall the main concern for me is raods ebikes are to slow to be on any road they dont move fast so the can get out of the way makeing more chance of accidents
now why were having a debait on if they shold go on bike paths well i dont see the point on banning them were looking at it all wrong were thinking oh well because its electric it sholdent be on them well here is a question road bikes or raceing bikes whatever you want to call them they can move at speeds welll over 35 (the suposed limit of an ebike ) are we going to ban then from bike paths as well ?
Surely the City is not relying on the Chief for legal advice? He admits the laws are complex (to him) when the laws are actually simple. It appears he is unfamiliar with Ontario Regulation 369/09, where Section 7 proscribes “A power-assisted bicycle must not be ridden on, driven or operated unless it is in good working order.” (for example, with pedals removed)… for which the fine is $85.
keelan has it right. City pathways just need a 20kmh speed limit for ALL vehicles. Banning and restricting ebikes because of irrational fears and wild speculation would be a travesty.
Safety and Equipment Requirements
6. What safety requirements are in place for e-bikes? Aren’t they, particularly those resembling scooters, heavier than conventional bicycles? Can’t they accelerate from a stopped-position much faster?
To operate an e-bike on Ontario’s public roads, the following vehicle safety and operator requirements are in place:
E-bike must not weigh more than 120 kg (includes the weight of bike and battery).
All operators and passengers must be at least 16 years of age.
All operators and passengers must wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmets.
All electrical terminals must be completely covered.
Two independent braking systems consistent with requirements for motorcycles and motor-assisted bicycles (mopeds) that applies force to each wheel and is capable of bringing the e-bike, while being operated at a speed of 30 km/h, to a full stop within 9 metres from the point at which the brakes were applied.
The minimum wheel width or diameter shall not be less than 35mm/350mm.
No modifications to the motor to allow it to exceed a power output greater than 500W and a speed greater than 32 km/h.
The battery and motor must be securely fastened to the vehicle to prevent them from moving while the e-bike is operating.
http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/vehicle/emerging/e-bike-faq.shtml#a2
Operating Requirements
9. What do I need to operate an e-bike?
To operate an e-bike:
No driver’s licence is required
No written test is required
No vehicle registration or plate is required
No motor vehicle liability insurance is required
All operators/riders/passengers must be 16 years of age and older.
All persons operating an e-bike are required to wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet.
All operators/riders/passengers must be 16 years of age and older
i think if you just give it more time .. its not nessary to start forcing these folks to get a licence , registration or insurance. . yes the ebikes are slow .. so are bicycles .. ???? if you really want to get the owners attention , how about creating some positive PR prehaps offering owners workshops in safe operation of thier scooters / wheelchairs .. ?the transportation is used by a lot of folks on disability and pensions .. do you think they can really aford that .. they didnt buy a 5000 dollar yamaha .. and for a market that is just starting to come into its own .. you will have killed intrest in eco travel .. which i think is the whole point of owning one.i admit there are some drivers who are not careful .. but the same holds true about some auto drivers … BTW .. a lot of these scooters do have signal lights .. and i notice a lot of them using the old hand turn signals … Are the car drivers watching for this .. or prehaps thier misinterpiting this as erratic driving ? dont punish everyone because there are some that modify thier scooter.. this isnt everyone .. and again compared to cars .. there is no comparison .. it never ceases to amaze me , that when ever something good comes along .. somebody has to look at the negitive side .. well buck up boys because .- with the price of gas the way it is .. you might just have to trade your ford ranger in for one of these .. just to get to work .this is the future gentleman .. stops kicking dirt on it.. they did the same with radio , tv and the first cars .. just let it go !