City Implements New Strict Regulations on E-Bikes | Carscoops

      Scottsdale has implemented new regulations regarding who is permitted to ride electric bikes and motorcycles, along with the locations where they can do so.

      Recently, Scottsdale, AZ, has taken steps to regulate the use of electric bikes and motorcycles more strictly.

      The city has prohibited individuals under the age of 16 from riding e-bikes that can reach speeds of 21 mph or higher.

      Additionally, all electric motorcycles must now be titled and registered for operation on city streets.

      Like many cities globally, Scottsdale is facing issues related to electric bike usage, as both pedestrians and riders are being injured in related accidents. In response, the city has enacted several new rules aimed at reducing these incidents and improving safety.

      Effective July 1, anyone wishing to operate an electric motorcycle on city roads must have it titled and registered with the State of Arizona. This poses a challenge for local youths who have been riding off-road bikes, such as the Sur Ron Lightbee, without any required licenses, registrations, or insurance, all of which are now mandatory.

      Additional Age Restrictions and Speed Regulations

      The new laws extend further. Under Ordinance No. 4680, individuals under 16 years old are prohibited from riding class three electric bicycles, which are defined as those that can achieve speeds of 21 mph (34 km/h) or more. However, they will still be allowed to ride class one electric bikes, which have a lower maximum speed.

      Dr. Anthony Pickett from Phoenix Children's Hospital has reported an uptick in injuries among children involving electric bikes and motorcycles, and these injuries are often serious, not just minor bumps or fractured limbs.

      “The majority [of injuries] are, unfortunately, quite severe head injuries,” Dr. Pickett noted, emphasizing that riders face not just the typical risks of traffic accidents but also hazards such as hidden potholes or dogs suddenly running into the path. The dangers are heightened because electric bikes and motorcycles often travel faster than regular bicycles, and riders frequently forgo helmets.

      Retailer Regulations and Compliance

      Bike retailers are now required to affix a permanent label to any new class three bike sold, clearly indicating its classification, with any removal of this label being illegal. They must also provide potential customers with a written notice outlining the new regulations.

      The effectiveness of these changes in altering rider behavior remains unclear. While they may discourage some individuals, others may still violate the rules since the infringement is categorized as a petty offense, incurring a $100 fine. Nonetheless, this marks a step in the right direction, and if these measures do not initially succeed, it’s possible that penalties will become more severe in the future.