Yes it's a good point I'm actually more flexible in my older age than I was when I was younger because of e-bikes you still get exercise but you don't get all overexerted and stiff as hell
750 watts is 1 horsepower pedal assist is enough for me to pull a four-wheel farm wagon framed plastic cardboard bicycle camper which is quite handy for doing shopping also..... the local people in uniform looked at it and think it's a gas... sheriff and deputies gave me thumbs up
I live in Florida and they just don't care what you're riding or driving as long as you are not interfering with the flow of traffic or putting others in danger. No law will protect the public from an irresponsible person.
Sick of being punished for the actions of morons. You can't walk Now I have to deal with padded walls, you can't drive now I have to deal with regulation overlap. This is out of hand.
The California e-bike classifications are very simple. There are only three. Class 1: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph Class 2: Operates via pedal-assist or THROTTLE and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph Class 3: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 28 mph The magic word is throttle; if your bike has a twist grip to thumb throttle, it is considered a class 2 e-bike. Class 3 has no throttle and usually has a fancy torque sensor in it's crank to engage the motor. Besides speed, a motor cannot have more than 750 watts of power. Many off-road e-bikes have more, and are totally legal to ride off road or on private streets. They are usually controller locked to make them acceptable to use on public roads at 20 mph. But some morally irresponsible riders unlock their legal off-road bikes to ride on the street. They are many times too fast to ensure safety with others in the bike lane, but too slow to keep up with traffic in their own traffic lane where there are no bike lanes. This is where there are safety issues and people complain to their legislatures. Their only role is to create new laws. We don't need new laws....law enforcement needs to step in and enforce the traffic laws.
In my experience on the roads, Low speed e-bikes are dangerous to the biker. If I can't go as fast as the traffic around me, every time a car passes me is a roll of the dice. If I can go as fast as the traffic around me, I can maintain my own lane/space with ease (like a motorcycle), and feel much safer.
There were 377 non motor vehicle related bicycle fatalities in 2021 compared to 233 deaths associated with micro mobility devices from 2017 through 2022. I think the more important issue in order to curb these fatalities is to focus on infrastructure and create safer conditions for riders.
The thing is with these agencies once they come into existence you will never get rid of them while they continuously overburden us with new unnecessary laws and revenue generation schemes to justify their existence.
The sit-down gas scooters was regulated so bad here in Maryland the government all but killed the sales of them here!!! The same will happen with Ebikes!! If your going to make me carry insurance and license then I would just get a motorcycle!!! These regulations will KILL the Ebike industry in the United States!!!
You do realize that insurance and registration for even a 50cc scooter in most states is literally less than $200 for the whole year... You're complaining about nothing
How much could it possibly be!! As soon as anything gets popular in this country the government wants to take a piece of it. If maps came back in again the government would charge us an extra plan like a route tax.
@@Zx7o. Its not the money!!! Like I said if im going to take the time and effort to get a motorcycle endorsement, Im going that route then for anything over 28mph. Whats the point? I would step up to a Evoke Urban!!!
More government finding ways to tax. In the end it will be how government can make money. Safety is NOT at the top of the list. Plan on ebikes going up in price. Most likely a lot.
The reason would be, the lack taxation funds associated with the sale of gasoline and cars! A Ebike is cheaper to run and that's why Biden is proposing EVs since the use of electricity is going way up for EVs (Taxation on Energy Structure). The Ebike is a "LOOPHOLE" in regulation and taxation. The real reason is for CONTROL by the Psychopaths, Sociopaths in our GOV chasing control and power over their Citizens. The system is Evil and Broken.
True, once more people start riding ebikes they will just start charging a new tax on them because of loss of revenue. Push electric cars on us, tax the hell out of them, People start using ebikes, Tax the hell out of them. Soon you will start being taxed to walk.
I agree with you. While most e-bikers ride responsibly, there is a small sub-group that have unlocked their dirt bikes to ride faster. While legal to use on trails, it is illegal to ride on public roads. They are often seen in groups riding right through stop signs and traffic lights. And since they carry no insurance on a bicycle, they do not have liability coverage to pay for any damage to a vehicle. They present a danger when they use bike lanes for they are often going double the speed of pedaled bikes. People complain to law enforcement and then to their legislators, and next thing we know, we have new pending laws further regulating e-bikes. We can potentially have an environment like Europe where many parts have e-bike regulations that limit their speed to 15 mph. It should have never gotten this far. Law Enforcement should do their job and give infractions to those who break basic traffic laws. Our local law enforcement is confiscating illegal bikes outside of California e-bike classifications.
@@SilverShadow2LWB There are Ebikes like the Talaria and especially the the SurRon which is good for wheelies and showing off. Try doing a wheelie in front of a cop and see what you get! The least would be "Reckless Driving" of a motorcycle. That should be the same for Ebikes since the Idiot is doing the wheelie, is endangering pedestrians, cars and ALL TRAFFIC on that street. That will all stop when law enforcement confiscates and tickets the Ebike rider with serious financial fines. So, there we have it, go after the problem Idiots, ticket them with confiscation of the Ebike and possibly a Reckless Driving Violation with possible suspension of a vehicle license. What is really STUPID is, those same fellas pulling wheelies wonder why their suspension forks are going bad! Wait till they blow a tire on the front or rear doing stunts! Most of them don't have to sense to think of a simple defensive idea, "What If This Or That Happens" mechanically on the Ebike let alone the Idiot screwing up! The DEVIL is in the works!
@@ezl8002Those aren't e-bikes though. I know about the Surron but looked up the Talaria and none of the bikes are true e-bikes. E-bikes have pedals. Those bikes are all just electric motor bikes/dirt bikes. You can't pedal any of them. They all require license and registration unless you're on private property.
I don't think that the government should have anything to do with E-Bikes; treat them like regular bikes; if certain people misuse the bikes, i.e. to speed or to act recklessly, then take actions against those folks and leave everyone else alone. Adding regulations only makes it so that the tech will not be used ; e-bikes have multiple benefits; for those that can't afford a real vehicle, it might be a mode of transportation that they can afford. For those that desire to ride for the fun of it, it might be something that adds functionality or safety, yes, safety, to the sport. Those with health problems, well, it encourages those people to try anyways.. Adding in confusing regulations only serves to keep people from using E-Bikes; leave e-bikes alone. If there are obvious abuses, local authorities and jurisdictions can write up laws to address such specific issues, like acting recklessly, speeding, etc. The feds should not be involved one iota.
the government doesn't care what you think unless you write down a letter or email or call your representative or senator to express your opinion. Further there are commercial industry groups like "peopleforbikes" lobbying for greater regulation.
This really sounds like they're making a mountain out of a molehill (in regards to low speed eBikes). My average speed on an ebIke is 15-17mph, compared to around 12 on an regular bike. But I also have better brakes. In 2021 there were 1230 bicyclist deaths in the USA. If these 41 eBike deaths were part of that 1230, that's 3% of the deaths. They'd be better off tackling bicycle accidents generally than focusing on eBikes. Bicycle accidents most commonly involve 15-20 years olds, because they haven't developed the street skills to keep themselves safe. Rather than wasting money investigating eBike safety specifically, the money should be spent on freely available bicycle safety classes for anyone who wants to take one, whatever their age. Also, big US vehicles with hoods at adult head height and poor visibility are far more dangerous to people not inside the vehicle, whether pedestrians or cyclists. I suspect a properly detailed breakdown of cyclist/pedestrian/vehicle accidents would show that the vehicle that hits the pedestrian/cyclist is more responsible for the pedestrian/cyclist's injuries or death than the pedestrian/cyclist's behavior or the bicycle itself.
A bicycle can be peddled over 30+ mph and if a person jogging gets hit by the bicyclist it can result in severe injuries or even death to either one in the accident. A jogger was killed by a bicyclist on a trail about 35 miles from me a little over 20 years ago it was in the newspaper so the bicyclist really was at fault running too fast on a trail. A Ebike is far safer since most have Bells and a Horn to alert People. The Ebike rider should never run over 20 mph and use discretion or "Common Sense" when riding on trails. All of the legislation is nonsense and about taxation since No Politician ever the Public's interest at heart and had a controlreason for passing a law since it was for taxation, regulation and personal ego.
It should not be based on watage but speed. Since I have a wheel chair and me at 245. Being limited on watage of the moter makes me put additional wear on a motor that would not be the same if I could use a larger 1000 or 1250 watt motor. The speed classing is a beter match.
Exactly. _Safety_ regulations, establish _minimum_ power handling requirements, to reduce risk of fire. Setting a maximum power handling limit, sets a lower bar for safety.
Government rule makers exist to think up rules that will bring in income from fines so that government can hire more rule makers. The government need not stick their noses into this at all.
Our GOV is infested with Idiots chasing the $$$ and recognition for passing laws that inflate their EGOs (Narcissists). I would bet that none of them could walk by a mirror without looking into it or a camera to make sure they are seen by the Public and it is reminiscent of Hollywood, doesn't it?
Yeah I don't think it'll really matter with the amount of illegal things I see on the streets of my city. but it's still concerning for what people will have access to
First time viewer here, ebiker since 2018. If feds get involved that over rules local laws, twenty mph and 750 watts motor. Helmet mandatory. The reason for helmet is ebike makes no sound compared to motorcycle. I wear a helmet and my local laws don't require them over 16 years old. I was right in front of a car, the driver never saw me until he almost hit me. I am a big guy and my bike is big. At night I actually feel safer, I have reflectors and reflecting tape everywhere, I also have led lights everywhere and very bright headlight. I'm a old man and I enjoy riding. So stay safe everyone.
I was taught that you should only wear a helmet if you have a head worth protecting. I don't even ride an analog bike without a helmet. The only drawback is helmet head hair after rides, a sacrifice I'm willing to make. Speed & power limits on the e-bikes are absurd. The laws should address road speeds, like with cars. Agree 100% with you on throttles. I also have health issues. I can pedal much further if not worried "can I pedal back?". I don't use it often but a throttle is a must. Anecdotally I used to reach higher speeds on analog bikes than I ever have on an e-bike (including a 2500 watt e-bike), just not up hills.
@@dougchrysler3694 In the early 80s, with the aid of a long hill, I pegged a speedo at 55mph. Just once! At the bottom of the hill I watched the cheap brake pads on my Huffy road bike turn to smoke. A cool visual but helpful to braking not so much. Ended up in the bushes on the other side of the road in a turn. Ah to be young and indestructible again.
55 mph, really? You had a speedometer on your cheap huffy and you were able to take your eyes off the road to even look at this make believe speedometer?
@@paul5683 While rude I will answer your suspicious question(s). YES, I had a cheap analog speedometer on my cheap Huffy. They were readily available in the 70s at any department store, much like my Huffy. I got mine at a Caldors. I'm sorry I didn't save the receipts for you. And YES on the long decline I had time to look at the "make believe" speedo. FYI I was moving faster than 55mph but that was all the speedo read and it was literally "pegged" at 55. I'm sorry you wasted your time on this and am afraid you'll have to find some bigger conspiracy to be worth anyones time.
@geekfreak618 That's why I like to DIY my e-bikes from analog bikes. That way I can control quality & I learn more about my e-bike and can track down problems. I can also match power & bicycle for custom desires or tasks. 2500 watts on my MTB is for long distance and/or hauling a dog trailer in comfort (not speed) & for local errands in the city I have a POS hybrid bike with a 750 watt motor detuned to 500 watts (set up for "class 2" status).
I've got a old Trek I converted to a mid drive. There are increased risks with the conversion. I have all the safety features on it. Brake shut off, shift cut out. The extra weight does make it a little harder to control on jumps. Really there are some safety issues with products on the market for conversion. The drive sprockets often have cut outs that you can get toes and fingers in. I specifically looked for sprockets without the cut outs. There are some things they can make safer without limiting the technology. The one thing I am considering is some sort of angle/fall shut off, I haven't come up with a solution that will not accidently trigger on a jump or steep bank turn. I over estimated my ability to climb a hill and flipped backwards-- the ebike didn't cause the flip I probably would of done the same on the analog bike. However by the time I came to a stop the bikes rear tire was on my leg and the pedal moved kicking on the drive wheel for a moment. Really my only injury was the burn from the tire doing a burn out on my leg. (now the secret is its a 1000W/52v battery, but I also weigh 200lbs so I agree with you power should not be limited, if they want to limit it do it by speed not power so big people and little people can go the same speed) I for one think let the trails set speed limits and let the riders follow the speed limit. I think bikes should be allowed to have modes. If I can set my bike to meet Class 1 parameters, or Class 2, 3. Then I should be able to operate where only class 1 is allowed if I set it to class 1. I don't want to own 5 bikes for different areas. My mountain bike will cover almost all categories and I will limit it to the trail requirements, I will respect the trail rules. I often use it to ride with my teen son, I let him set the pace on his analog bike on the trail.
@ 71 & performing trail maintenance (pulling a 5 gal. bucket of asphalt sealer-tagging removal) i NEED a throttle, for pulling the trailer back up onto the trail surface, as we work on different spots.We have sold e-bikes or kits for 25 + years. Zap was an early one, Currie Tech also. I use a 10 year old I-Zip Path + w/cruise control & Burley Flatbed trailer for this work.
I'm in Riverside County. In one or two of our cities, we're having problems with young kids with these "high power" Ebikes. They are running amuck in parking lots full of people and vehicles. Our department is currently in the "Education phase" of this dilemma. Parents are purchasing these bikes for their children without doing the research on Ebike itself. On the 750 watt "rule" If you're tall and weigh 285 pounds, you'll need more than 750 watts to move that bike. No, I don't weigh 285 pounds. Like you said, we have speed limits and traffic rules that both bicycles and vehicles have to follow. I have a Mustang. It is fast. (Chevy and Mopar fans, shut your mouth) I/we have the power to go beyond the speed limit. If you break the law, a deputy has the discretion to either scratch a cite or not to scratch a cite. People just need to ride with common sense.
Micro-mobility/PEV overreactions are because they are new and novel. There are more accidents per rider on traditional bikes, skateboards, rollerblades and skates, ATVs, snowmobiles, motorcycles, and certainly automobiles. Speed is a factor, but there are plenty of riders on those more-traditional vehicles who go fast. If there is a trail speed limit for eBikes, it should apply to every other bike on that trail. The next factor is momentum (mass times velocity) because I would rather get hit by a kid on a skateboard than by a pickup truck - even at the same speed, so it might make sense to have some weight-based classifications.
Thank you Kyle for the heads up on this important topic. Let’s all try to do our best to make crisp, concise & powerful comments that persuade regulators to promulgate rules that support rider safety without compromising features that enable people of diverse abilities to experience the fun and freedom our micro-mobility platform provides.
Hey, the CPSC was instrumental for me and other owners in forcing Rad Power Bikes to finally recall the defective proprietary/exclusive tires on their RadWagon 4 cargo e-bike. The sidewalls were splitting resulting in an immediate and "explosive" deflation, sometimes while the bike was just parked but also when the bike was in use, including while carrying small children passengers. Rad was denying responsibility for all of this and even basically blacklisted me in their support system (for any issue -- not just tires) even during my warranty period because I kept pushing the issue. As a result of the CPSC getting involved (they interviewed me multiple times), Rad was forced to recall/replace all the RW4 tires, and Rad ended up offering me a return/full refund on my bike even though I owned it for 11 months and 2500 miles, which I happily accepted and quickly put the company in my rear view mirror with a different brand if e-bike. So I wouldn't say that it's always a bad thing with the CPSC getting involved. Other agencies of the government, maybe, but I kind of like it when the CPSC gets involved in such things because it stops companies like Rad from ignoring or even bullying their own customers.
people who say that ebikes are mopeds are those who a) don't want to share the road with anyone who exceeds speeds 15mph B) never been on an ebike. If anything, regulations should be put in place for manufacturers who sell you bikes with crummy brakes. Good brakes save lives.
I am 75 and been on ebikes 10 years. Sad to see this, however understand. I see some nuts on the roads on bikes and ebike and yes cars trucks and 4WD. Ride safe and take care.
72 year old class 1-2-3 e-bike rider/motorcycle rider here. Any senior e-bike rider with a motorcycle endorsement should be allowed to ride any e-bike he/she chooses to. Manufacturers should be forced to have safety standards for their e-bikes, especially in regards to breaking abilities. There should be a standard breaking ability ie the ability to come to a complete stop from a designated speed , ie x stopping distance from 20 mph. I agree with you that having a throttle along with pedals poses no additional risk to anyone. For senior riders having the ability to quickly get to a bathroom without having to pedal removes a great deal of potential stress. Having to pedal when in bathroom distress only increases the potential of having a mess in one’s pants. Young riders won’t have a clue about this dynamic but hopefully mature law makers will totally get it.
Yes , in my saying “riders with a motorcycle endorsement should be allowed to ride any e-bike” I wasn’t insinuating that any license should be required. However, IF the powers that be should legislate that a license would be required, those who already have a motorcycle endorsement would be exempt from having to jump through additional hoops just to ride an e-bike. At the same time I’m not in favor of children operating e-bikes capable of higher speeds on traffic laden roadways. Unfortunately common sense has become a thing of the past thus necessitating the implementation of additional regulations to protect the innocent.
It should just be breaking as you can"t even count on people to know active from passive, use punctuation, or to use adverb versions of words (such as drive safely not drive safe). Then you have autocorrection, typing goofs, and Mrs. Pellins.
Ill never own another e-bike because of the build quality. Had a super73 frame break at the welds (they welded two bicycle frames together in parallel and the welds snapped from daily riding. A friend had their Super73 (different model) break at the forks. Seen the same weld issues in other bikes as well
I don’t usually comment but I’ve watched your videos for years. I’m not sure how your health is doing but from appearance best you’ve ever looked. Love the videos great job
Im 63 and ride a modified Surron in and around Pittsburgh with my two sons (40/42 years old). They both ride straight peddle bikes and maintain speeds of 20 to 35 MPH for 70 miles. I have over 40k miles on my bike and have been stopped one time in Wheeling WVa, no helmet, no peddles. No ticket. I am on disability and cant peddle. My bike will exceed 80 MPH, but I HEED ALL traffic laws and for most of the time im putt-zing around 20/30 MPH. LEAVE US ALONE uncle sam.....
I wear a full face snowmobile helmet now (got it at start of winter). Possibly looking into a regular motorcycle helmet for summer time (full face and maybe cooler?).
My electric bicycle company model c is awesome. I had a stroke and stopped riding my old bike because I was afraid of straining too much up hills. On the ebike I can put it in medium assist and ride with low to moderate effort at 15mph. If it’s hot and I just want to go home I can use the throttle only and enjoy the breeze while getting home safely. I’m getting more exercise on my bike than ever before (not counting childhood) because it’s safe and fun to ride.
Having just run the gauntlet of getting a motorcycle license, registration,insurance,helmet,class, I now understand why there are fewer and fewer motorcycles on the road. It is a hassle & expense that not many will want ro go through. So much easier to have a sheepel car. But it did show me how I prefer my flexible, quiet, non-regulated ebike. These well intentioned regs with put a further damper on riding a ebike.
What next a manitory state inspection on our E bikes? Fight back get involved, save our freedom. Vote no size of batteries, motor s,etc. Just follow speed limits..😮
Oh great, another opportunity for big brother to collect more money from law abiding citizens in the name of safety. Wonder what they will do with the proceeds
First let me qualify myself: I am a retired electronics and process controls technician. I have delt with motor controller and motor power matching for a long time. My biggest point of contention with the majority of state laws is the wattage limit of the motor - typically limiting to 750 watts. Instead the limits need to be based on the total power output of the controller, NOT the power handling capability of the motor. If your motor is 750 watts and you run with a 1000 watt capable controller, your motor is not going to last nearly as long as a 1000watt (or higher) motor limited to 750 watts by the controller. The fact is that the wattage rating of the motor does not determine it's maximum speed. Instead the wattage rating of the motor is a *maximum stress rating.* A controller capable of delivering 1000 watts WILL and does indeed deliver more power to a 750 watt rated DC motor than the motor can handle. The motor will run faster, but it will burn up it's coils much sooner. It's the controller output that determines maximum speed of the motor. The problem is that law makers and people in general think the wattage rating of the motor is equivalent to horse power rating of a combustion engine. It is not. If you must use the combustion engine analogy, having a controller limited to 750 watts is like putting a fuel flow restrictor on a 1000 horse power engine. Regardless of it's total horse power rating, the engine is only going to turn up to the speed allowed by the restricted amount of fuel. For understanding: A 110 volt, 100 watt light bulb can be "driven" by a 110 watt power input simply by raising the voltage by 10 volts. Most people realize this shortens the life of the bulb. On the other hand, a 110 volt, 100 watt bulb driven by 90 watts of power (reduce the voltage by 10 volts or limit the current to .85 amps) and the bulb will last much longer. The wattage rating of the bulb doesn't limit how brightly the bulb burns, but it ONLY tells how much power it can safely and reliably handle.
Appreciate the Heads up. I ckmmented the following "I ride both a tradition bicycle and an e-bike on a regular basis. e-bikes pose no hreat hazard than a traditional bicycle in my opinion. Regulating e-bike or bicycles if any should be left for the individual states to decide."
I bought a Voltbike Yukon 750 about 5 years ago, absolutely zero issues or regrets. Even the battery seems to be just as powerful as the day I bought it. Sorry to hear you had such a bad experience with yours, e-bike is such a good way to spend time outdoors.
The whole pedal vs. throttle question is ridiculous. When you look at actual pedal assist motor controllers, they require NO pedal effort at all. That is, as long as you are moving the pedals, they will accelerate to the maximum speed in the selected speed range. So there is no valid reason to make a distinction between pedal assist and throttle operation.
I think the two biggest factors are people who don't know what they're doing on a regular bike or able to rent e-bikes or buy e-bikes and the second issue is the lack of bike infrastructure in a lot of places where they just put you next to the cars and wish you good luck but if you go to like Denmark pretty much the whole country is dedicated to safe riding on bicycles
Ill never own another e-bike because of the build quality. Had a super73 frame break at the welds (they welded two bicycle frames together in parallel and the welds snapped from daily riding. A friend had their Super73 (different model) break at the forks. Seen the same weld issues in other bikes as well.
The problem is that e-bikes are so varied. If there are no pedals and it can exceed 30mph, it's an electric motorcycle. If it is a 'sidewalk scooter', capable of 20mph, it is way too fast for pedestrian areas. The single-wheel scooters are a super hazard because the riders are insane. Couple that with the fact that very few even pay slight attention to road rules and road safety, and add to that the horrible way cars treat bike riders of all sorts, and it's just a matter of time for fatal accidents. I ride an e-trike, motor cuts off PAS at 14mph, I have taillights, brake lights, headlight, mirror, and horn.
I have less issues with my e bike vs my non powered bike. My e bike is bright blue my 18 speed non powered bike is dark blue, car's don't see the bike as well as the e bike. I got into a slide on a gravel road with both and the e bike did better because I could keep my feet still and use the motor to get me out of the slide, the non powered bike slid out from under me and I went 1/2 way down. I can get out of the way in traffic better with the e bike. Dogs can't catch me on the e bike but on the non powered bike I have to be careful. I like to ride the e bike more and it seems to help my breathing, balance and leg strength, I am 55. I drive the car less since I got the e bike so less CO2 and car expenses. My e bike goes 28 mph and is a 750 watt, my non powered bike I had up to 27 mph
My ebike can go 48 mph but it can also be limited to 20 mph in pedal assist 2. I think this is something that should be considered in relation to bike trails.
Department of transportation law- (going on memory) pending on the state the bicycle speed limit is 20-30 mph. Moped speed- 30ish-40ish mph need to registered. Motorcycle speed- 40mph+. We have these law in effect now. So in my opinion follow the current laws.
Some people just like to have something to complain about. you have to be responsible for your own actions. I ride my ebike on our trails all the time. people just like to point there finger.
Well. If it's the person who's right in the e bike, they should be responsible for riding a bike, it's like a car. It has a throttle you can control the speeds that you can be safe. But you've got people who don't pop-up with stuff with they do, as they're going to do pop wheels. Do it in a background somewhere, so there's no cops. No, people around all you gotta do is ride the bike normally where you're on the road. You can follow the speeds. You can do you could go fast if you want to go slow. I have a high-powered bike so I do between 15 and 20 I can control my own speeds. It's the operator of the bike. That's why people are getting two accidents because they're careless of driving the Well do you speak😊
Number one government agency should not be involved in this because at the heart of it they really know nothing about electric bikes as their questions show. They’re asking peoples opinions, basically wanting mob rule so if a bunch of people don’t like electric bikes, we will heavily regulate them if they like them will leave them alone. That is emotional based law, not fact law. i’ve been a professional bike mechanic for over 25 years. I absolutely love electric bikes. Most of them are extremely safe. Our class system on bikes is sufficient. It should be modified slightly as you said however we have speed limits. We have our standard rules of the road. These are adequate, and these can be enforced. We don’t need more fluff more regulation and more complication which the government will and has always brought to the table.this is the same organization that made people stop buying children’s motorcycles for about one year and cost the motorcycle industry millions of dollars because the motorcycle engine had too much lead in it because they wrote the law poorly
A lot of people e-bike safety concerns fail to recognize that most of their points apply equally to motorcycles. I know quite a few people with the attitude that roads are for cars and no one rides for free.
Limits on excelleration of a motorcycle or a bicycle is a hazard to the bicyclist. I had two bicycle accidents in my life because I did not have the power to get out of the way of a car. Which is why I commuted by motorcycle for ten years in CA. and Florida.
I really appreciate your well structured video and clear points. I do think that you would have more impact if you prepared an appropriate and impactful example submission that people could use and modify if they wish. Make it as easy as possible for people to participate and get your informed and respected recommendations submitted. Include the specific instructions as well. Thank you for your work on this and for adocating a rational evolution of bike safety policy.
what folks do not understand nor discern is that this is not about safety. How do you pass a law without the people's vote. Although there isn't much information on the amount of non ebikes in California. But according to a survey, it is estimated that In 2022, 54.7 million people in the United States rode a bike at least once a year. That number is not even close to being accurate. This is simply big legislation, regulation and eventually taxation in a money hungry state. The wealth are behind this as well as law enforcement. Remember in some jurisdiction, law enforcement ride ebikes also, but their ebikes does not allow them to go over 20mph, so they won't be able to keep up with a e bike that can go 30 plus in speed. I am a law abiding citizen , but this is one law I will not comply with. I ride respectfully, wear a helmet, have my own personal insurance and obey all road laws pertaining to any bike driven. Lastly, let me point out. I was the admin for sacramento critical mass facebook group for years and worked and have spoken in meetings with the sacramento bike coalition in regards to bike safety, green bike lanes etc... I can tell you first hand, that if you go to any bike trail in the California region, you with see regular non e bike cyclist (especially road bikes) single handedly and with groups riding the trails screaming at individuals walking at 25 plus miles an hour. Now I can see all the karens and kens smiling and loving this law. These are the folks on the trail that yell at you and say "you can't be on the trail with your ebaik" I bought it, and I will be darned if I allow the state to regulate what I purchase with my own money for outdoor enjoyment as well as to and from appointments, work etc...
I can understand speed limits. But what does power have to do with anything other than being able to keep up speed on steep hills. Fortunately I do not live in the US and 1500 watts or 110 cc's and 70 KPH with functional pedals is all that is required.
I agree with rule changes if we are not further restricted. European 250 watt limits would outlaw the vast majority of US bikes and limit their usefulness to areas without hills.
Don't forget, to get that one-time plate you need DOT tyres, DOT headlight and turn signals, and a horn. This is a lot to add to e-bikes. After adding all that, it is hard to argue that it is still an e-bike.
Caught this just in time, thank you. The fact that ebikes are designated differently than a regular bike (which has zero speed limiters) is my biggest peeve. Here's what I wrote: Stop calling them and legislating them as e-bikes. They're just bikes. Solely pedal powered and electric powered bicycles are not necessarily different in their speed capabilities or danger level to the driver or to passersby. I've easily gone over 40mph on a human powered bike, and also been on an ebike limited to 20mph while pedal bikes raced past at more than twice the speed. What *would* be useful is better categorisation of the *use* of bikes so that they're not a grey area in so much of the country. Oh, and your chart of "deaths by ebike" is nonsensical at best. Disregarding the fact that in terms of methods of transportation, cycling (ebike or otherwise) poses probably the least harm to others, almost nobody had one when the chart started.
Most of the Ebike deaths were caused by cars hitting them (88%), just like cars killing motorcycle riders (78%). Last year 1,490 people died on regular bicycles and 86,000 were injured and hospitalized. I don't think any new regulation is warranted based on the risks of regular bike riding that's not regulated at all. The Actuary tables don't support it. Having said all that, I went down hard at only 12-14 mph on my Rad Rover 5 coming out of a single track trail and got dragged about 100 feet on wet ground. I was wearing a helmet but not a scratch on it. Did a split like a high school cheerleader, tore all the ligaments from my pelvis, and tore open my left leg. While I was learning to walk again my more-powerful Himiway bike arrived in it's box that I ordered before the crash! Lol! 😆😆😆😆My wife stuck it in the storage unit so I wouldn't try to put it together and ride it! When she went to Florida last week to see her sister, I unpacked it, tuned it up, and took that baby out on the road!!
Glad to hear you're up & around! I fractured my hip, throwing the chain on a _manual_ bicycle, & a bicycle got me back in motion months before I could walk without pain. We got a large ebike ~3 years ago, which goes great in snow\etc. I only need an automobile for _loooong_ trips now, & it's marvelous!
Just watched the episode on ebike legislature (kudos} and you say mopeds are obviously not ebikes yet many times I hear reference to moped style ebikes. Seems rather cloudy. They remind me more of the minibikes with the old Briggs or Tecumseh horizontal shaft that many of us remember growing up. (With just a modern technological twist) Been a big fan of your channel for some time. Keep up the great 👍 work!☮️
1) laws exist class 1/2=bicycle. Laws by state. 2) (your question) Any ebike that can exceed 28 should have a VIN #, so state law can be adhered(moped law). 3) how many hospital/deaths are from unpowered Bicycles (is there a difference in%)? - motor power is dumb (EU). To be limited, rule have to be controller watts (amps x volts) supplied (this is really for the EU silly rules). -on my unpowered 21lb bicycle I would exceed 28 on daily route, so class law speeds make sense. - How many people have been killed by legal ebikes? (i know of only one)
Hello! I am 74, have been riding e-bikes/trikes for 10 years as my primary transport. I have had no mech issues other than flat tires. I find it interesting that many states have a 50cc or less policy on gas motors for bikes and 50cc motors have 2.5 horsepower (capable of 60mph). A 750 watt e-bike is one horsepower. The RPM is regulated to 470 and the max speed is 25mph. Rear drive can be unstable on dirt due to fishtailing. Front drive is stable. Regards
just put the safty washers on the front rim with two nuts and its all good the quick release on the front aint good,you just dont need it if you aint racing
It's bad to compare us to europe for these standards simply because many countries allow/force bike riding on the sidewalks with pedestrians. Riding 28mph 5 feet from the Aldi front entrance is not what we US ebike riders are trying to be compared to.
Ya I think that the motor wattage shouldn't be restricted. I am a big guy and with the current ones they either can't get me up some hills or the motor has burned out.
I appreciate your channel & input, you've made ebikes your job & you're doing it most awesomely! You're analytical as am I, nitty gritty details matter! Was very sorry to hear about your struggles with weird medical issues involving balance? Holy Crap ~ the worst thing!!!!! Sincerely Sorry, but you seem better & I hope you Truly Are!👍 Moving on, have a need for an ebike, with pedals, capable of carrying 2 adults with a very long seat? We are not stick people, I weigh 175 lbs, fully clothed at 5'10" she's 5' 3" rounded & top heavy, (Ya-hoo).. 180 lbs or ? Can't Ask 😅 So there's the Power Goat V2 ?? Extremely long seat & very high weight carrying capacity 450 lbs?! Would be great to hear your assessment on that bike, with a passenger, & perhaps a small goat & a few chickens? 😅 Seriously & Sincerely 😊
high speed e-bikes (31 mph +) or e-bikes with no pedals should be considered a moped or if fast enough a electric motor cycle and have the same licensing and restrictions as a moped/motor cycle . however, a class 2 or class 3 bike should be able to go up to 30 MPH and have a throttle as a lot of roads that we use have that speed limit and so would create less congestion and i feel would be safer because of that when used on road. I would also like there to be better breaking requirements. I did install hydraulics on mine and am considering a larger Roter to help make stopping easier if needed in an emergency . the hydraulic upgrade I got from Area 13 made a big difference.
The 750 watt rule is silly, at least for us here in California the hills make it impossible for a 750 watt ebike to go uphill at the rated speed with a commuter, ebike and his gear. If you are trying to get to work without needing a shower you want to be able to get up the hills at traffic speed to maximize safety. Ebike classes by speed are fine but lose the power rules, it takes more power for a cargo or tandem or serious (heavy) commute bicycle. You don't want to go slower than traffic at least up to 35 mph and create a roadblock where there is no bike lane. The older rule in California was 1000 watts and even that is not enough to go uphill at safe traffic speeds. Reasonable speed limits determined by safety are fine, power limits are not consistent with the way we manage vehicle safety in general. Bike lanes should have speed limits, not power limits. Speed limits should be defined by traffic safety and conditions, such as those near schools that drop when children are present but are higher at other times. It doesn't matter whether a bike is pedal or electric powered, all speed limits (including bike lanes) should be related to safety. Faster ebikes (30+) require more training and traffic awareness such as a moped license. Regulating equipment is not a solution to speeding.
I live in the mountains in France and i can witness how stupid the 250w limit is. It is meant for people living in flat towns to avoid to compete with mopeds. I bought the LMX 2000w bike you advertised some time ago, and i have to pay an insurance, put a license plate, put a helmet on, have front and rear lights, a side miror..and now have to go 30 kilometers away to get my bike checked every 3 years! Very costly for a bike that can only be used out of the snow and mud season, which is 4 month a year
I live in Ireland, the law is ridiculous, anything over 250 Watts, 25 km/h pedal assist or has a throttle, requires insurance, road tax, motorcycle helmet and cannot be used on cycle lanes...
I live on a very big hill . I dont need so much speed , but definitely need power enough to keep up with traffic at speed 35mph ! 9500watts =35mph on a 30% grade .
My question is since the cops consider the Ebikes that go over 40 to 50 miles an hour a motorcycle could I take the DMV motorcycle test and get my license that way with the ebike
Well. If it's the person who's right in the e bike, they should be responsible for riding a bike, it's like a car. It has a throttle you can control the speeds that you can be safe. But you've got people who don't pop-up with stuff with they do, as they're going to do pop wheels. Do it in a background somewhere, so there's no cops. No, people around all you gotta do is ride the bike normally where you're on the road. You can follow the speeds. You can do you could go fast if you want to go slow. I have a high-powered bike so I do between 15 and 20 I can control my own speeds. It's the operator of the bike. That's why people are getting two accidents because they're careless of driving the😊
Great video thanks! I was one of those statistics for ER visit after an ebike crash and while I did crash on an ebike, the exact same outcome would have occurred had it been on a regular bike. The ebike had no part in the equation. So the stats could be skewed in that respect.
@geekfreak618 nothing to do with torque or speed. it was the height of the concrete (which was only 1.5") and the angle approached which deflected the front wheel. Shoulda pulled up but didn't seem to be necessary. Have thousands of miles on 6 diff bikes so most my incidents happen due to over confidence or carelessness.
We the people should start a group called that, to protect our freedom to ride with what ever horsepower we want, but follow the posted speed limit..😊😊😊😊😊
Anyone remember that "avid biking lady" who wasnt wearing a helmet, ran into a (12yr old?) child on an ebike and died.. because she wasnt wearing a helmet? And then they just outright banned ebikes because CHILD was clearly at fault for her not putting on a helmet.. real tragedy
@@prophetzarquon yeah I mean cars are real easy to see it's the bicycles that people apparently don't see. I've rode my euc to work 5 days a week for a year and a half now people stopped thinking they could get in front of me when I stopped giving them the chance
There doesn't need to be more regulation of ebikes. All they need to do is enforce the laws already on the books. There are some people who break all kinds of laws on an ebike. I've seen videos of ebikers going through every stop sign and stop light, riding fast on sidewalks etc. My ebike will go 25 mph but I always use pedal assist and never even hit 20 mph. I wear a high visibility bike helmet and obey all the laws. I have a rear view mirror on the left side. Ebikes pollute less and reduce our dependency on fossil fuels. I heard, recently, that demand for gasoline has dropped mostly because of ebikes in the US.
Exactly. We already have speed limits on almost every route. Just enforce that! _(& noise ordinance violations, while you're at it!?)_ 3 practices for sharing spaces: 1: Go slow 2: Be quiet 3: Leave no trace
speed limits on bike trails 20mph reasonable - lower limits in high traffic areas - use current classification system but allow class 3 to have a throttle - 750 watt limit for unlicensed category ebikes - ebikes having more than 750 watts and/or able to go more than 28mph are motor scooters - all scooter rules apply.
OK ... i heard it and now here's my .02 on classifying all these..keep it simple and well defined.. 1-pedal assist (bike with no throttle and pedals, requires pedaling to have the assist work) is an e-bike of a certain class for 20mph and higher class for 28mph. 2-One with pedals and a throttle is a MOPED just like the gas powered ones with pedals and a throttle ...and probably should be capped same as a Moped at 30mph and same Moped regulation.. after all, it IS just an electric MOPED instead of a gas one. 3-One with a throttle control for speed and NO pedals is defined as an electric Scooter, cap them where you want ( like 50mph and not authorized for hiway use ) and require a registration.. Maybe any larger engine and over 50mph consider it a small motorcycle. People should be able to live with this. The throttle designation is needed. And I'll add that mountain bike trails that don't allow gas dirt bikes should not allow throttle controlled e-bikes ( really is an e-dirt bike) They should allow e-bikes that are pedal assist. That might ruffle some feathers but it really is a fair compromise. Just my .02 but I think it''s fair classifications.
I don't know what good it will do but I signed the petition. I don't need an e-bike that goes 90 mph I need one that is powerful to go up hills with camping gear and myself with a Cannondale wagon which they don't make any more and they should start...... I have had dozens of people ask me where did I get the wagon.. I used to carry my kids to visits with me in the wagon when I used to be able to Pedal but now I have one leg and I cannot pedal. My bike has almost 1,600 me I could not believe the hills I went up with the wagon on the way home from Rochester New York to Batavia Google Maps got me lost 10 miles out of the way but I have 2. ...20 amp hours and 1 ...13 amp hour
There are more non-motorized bicycle fatalities and there are no restrictions. Cities/towns need to provide marked bike lanes. Riders should be encouraged to wear a bright colored reflective vest that makes the rider much more visible. And helmets should be encouraged! The government needs to keep their hands off! Parents need to monitor their kids. But kids can ride non-motorized bicycles and they are a hazard unless supervised!
I'm an active senior rider. Ebikes help me to keep active. I also don't drive cars. Ebikes allow me to be independent.
Education not Regulation !!
Yes! Now we're talkin'. All these bozos in the comments section thinking up rules, need to F off.
You forget you live under an oppressive rulership.
Freedom not Liberalism!!
Yes it's a good point I'm actually more flexible in my older age than I was when I was younger because of e-bikes you still get exercise but you don't get all overexerted and stiff as hell
750 watts is 1 horsepower pedal assist is enough for me to pull a four-wheel farm wagon framed plastic cardboard bicycle camper which is quite handy for doing shopping also..... the local people in uniform looked at it and think it's a gas... sheriff and deputies gave me thumbs up
We should limit politicians to 3 words a month. Been on two wheels 60 years.
I had a little trike @ 2 in pics I don't remember & hit 116mph on my Triumph 650, no helmet laws then & mandatory sunglasses for eye protection.
@@stevecumming6427 I been fast enough that if anything went wrong all that would be left of me is a greasy spot. Honda Super Bird. Rubbed on some.😁
@@stevecumming6427 Back in those days, you didn't grab a big handful of front brake with the old drums.
Same, I'm over 66. I have two fat tire ebikes. Daily rider.
I hope you have loud pipes.@@Saddletramp1200
I live in Florida and they just don't care what you're riding or driving as long as you are not interfering with the flow of traffic or putting others in danger. No law will protect the public from an irresponsible person.
We Florida riders need more infrastructure for bikes.
@@onimenogarou I can get almost anywhere on the sidewalks of Tampa
There are too many places where the sidewalks just stop, for miles, then start up again for a block then disappear. It's so frustrating.
@@onimenogarou I was in Tampa with my brompton a few months ago, absolutely the worst pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure I have seen in a city.
Seeing some major
Sick of being punished for the actions of morons. You can't walk Now I have to deal with padded walls, you can't drive now I have to deal with regulation overlap. This is out of hand.
The California e-bike classifications are very simple. There are only three.
Class 1: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph
Class 2: Operates via pedal-assist or THROTTLE and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph
Class 3: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a speed of 28 mph
The magic word is throttle; if your bike has a twist grip to thumb throttle, it is considered a class 2 e-bike. Class 3 has no throttle and usually has a fancy torque sensor in it's crank to engage the motor.
Besides speed, a motor cannot have more than 750 watts of power. Many off-road e-bikes have more, and are totally legal to ride off road or on private streets. They are usually controller locked to make them acceptable to use on public roads at 20 mph. But some morally irresponsible riders unlock their legal off-road bikes to ride on the street. They are many times too fast to ensure safety with others in the bike lane, but too slow to keep up with traffic in their own traffic lane where there are no bike lanes. This is where there are safety issues and people complain to their legislatures. Their only role is to create new laws. We don't need new laws....law enforcement needs to step in and enforce the traffic laws.
It's about protecting the car industry.
@@gary7vn A new Law is in the process of being passed in the EU: You cannot drive your car on weekends!
@@SilverShadow2LWB You should have added, "Moron Laws" to your test! Follow the Money Trail and you will find the problem.
No it about the government getting your money and controlling you
In my experience on the roads, Low speed e-bikes are dangerous to the biker.
If I can't go as fast as the traffic around me, every time a car passes me is a roll of the dice.
If I can go as fast as the traffic around me, I can maintain my own lane/space with ease (like a motorcycle), and feel much safer.
There were 377 non motor vehicle related bicycle fatalities in 2021 compared to 233 deaths associated with micro mobility devices from 2017 through 2022. I think the more important issue in order to curb these fatalities is to focus on infrastructure and create safer conditions for riders.
They cannot do that because then that would limit their ability to violate your right to travel and extort you for your own safety.
also best answer
Fatalities per mile, might be a useful comparison with cars, or motorcycles. Hopefully this is redundant.
Compared to the approximately 50,000 deaths due to driving automobiles...
@@wesbaumguardner8829 The UK is already trying to do it over with, no driving in cars on weekends!
When we create regulatory agencies, they feel the need to justify their existence by regulating.
A symptom of the disease of authoritarianism.
That’s a symptom of the disease of authoritarianism.
Who is we?
We the people, through the representatives we elect.
The thing is with these agencies once they come into existence you will never get rid of them while they continuously overburden us with new unnecessary laws and revenue generation schemes to justify their existence.
There are already laws regulating the power and speed of e-bikes. They don't enforce the laws they already have. What good are more laws.
The sit-down gas scooters was regulated so bad here in Maryland the government all but killed the sales of them here!!! The same will happen with Ebikes!! If your going to make me carry insurance and license then I would just get a motorcycle!!! These regulations will KILL the Ebike industry in the United States!!!
Maryland politics have killed our state.
You do realize that insurance and registration for even a 50cc scooter in most states is literally less than $200 for the whole year... You're complaining about nothing
How much could it possibly be!! As soon as anything gets popular in this country the government wants to take a piece of it. If maps came back in again the government would charge us an extra plan like a route tax.
@@Zx7o. Its not the money!!! Like I said if im going to take the time and effort to get a motorcycle endorsement, Im going that route then for anything over 28mph. Whats the point? I would step up to a Evoke Urban!!!
@OutlawFarmersRC absolutely I'm totally with you. The only problem is if you get a scooter you loose the exercise.
More government finding ways to tax. In the end it will be how government can make money. Safety is NOT at the top of the list.
Plan on ebikes going up in price. Most likely a lot.
they just want u to get a car so thay can tax u more so thats why they do this sheat ..... get it the car sell s is down cuz of the e bike ...
The reason would be, the lack taxation funds associated with the sale of gasoline and cars! A Ebike is cheaper to run and that's why Biden is proposing
EVs since the use of electricity is going way up for EVs (Taxation on Energy Structure). The Ebike is a "LOOPHOLE" in regulation and taxation. The real
reason is for CONTROL by the Psychopaths, Sociopaths in our GOV chasing control and power over their Citizens. The system is Evil and Broken.
It's right wingers trying to protect the oil industry profits.
The government doesn't make money it only takes money.
True, once more people start riding ebikes they will just start charging a new tax on them because of loss of revenue.
Push electric cars on us, tax the hell out of them, People start using ebikes, Tax the hell out of them. Soon you will start being taxed to walk.
Wife and I have been riding ebikes four years now I would hate to see an overreach to regulate ebikes
I agree with you. While most e-bikers ride responsibly, there is a small sub-group that have unlocked their dirt bikes to ride faster. While legal to use on trails, it is illegal to ride on public roads. They are often seen in groups riding right through stop signs and traffic lights. And since they carry no insurance on a bicycle, they do not have liability coverage to pay for any damage to a vehicle. They present a danger when they use bike lanes for they are often going double the speed of pedaled bikes. People complain to law enforcement and then to their legislators, and next thing we know, we have new pending laws further regulating e-bikes. We can potentially have an environment like Europe where many parts have e-bike regulations that limit their speed to 15 mph. It should have never gotten this far. Law Enforcement should do their job and give infractions to those who break basic traffic laws. Our local law enforcement is confiscating illegal bikes outside of California e-bike classifications.
@@SilverShadow2LWB There are Ebikes like the Talaria and especially the the SurRon which is good for wheelies and showing off. Try doing a wheelie
in front of a cop and see what you get! The least would be "Reckless Driving" of a motorcycle. That should be the same for Ebikes since the Idiot is
doing the wheelie, is endangering pedestrians, cars and ALL TRAFFIC on that street. That will all stop when law enforcement confiscates and tickets
the Ebike rider with serious financial fines. So, there we have it, go after the problem Idiots, ticket them with confiscation of the Ebike and possibly
a Reckless Driving Violation with possible suspension of a vehicle license. What is really STUPID is, those same fellas pulling wheelies wonder why
their suspension forks are going bad! Wait till they blow a tire on the front or rear doing stunts! Most of them don't have to sense to think of a simple
defensive idea, "What If This Or That Happens" mechanically on the Ebike let alone the Idiot screwing up! The DEVIL is in the works!
@@ezl8002 You are so right It boils down to bad parenting. These kids were never taught respect for the community and others.
@@ezl8002Those aren't e-bikes though. I know about the Surron but looked up the Talaria and none of the bikes are true e-bikes. E-bikes have pedals. Those bikes are all just electric motor bikes/dirt bikes. You can't pedal any of them. They all require license and registration unless you're on private property.
I don't think that the government should have anything to do with E-Bikes; treat them like regular bikes; if certain people misuse the bikes, i.e. to speed or to act recklessly, then take actions against those folks and leave everyone else alone.
Adding regulations only makes it so that the tech will not be used ; e-bikes have multiple benefits; for those that can't afford a real vehicle, it might be a mode of transportation that they can afford. For those that desire to ride for the fun of it, it might be something that adds functionality or safety, yes, safety, to the sport. Those with health problems, well, it encourages those people to try anyways.. Adding in confusing regulations only serves to keep people from using E-Bikes; leave e-bikes alone. If there are obvious abuses, local authorities and jurisdictions can write up laws to address such specific issues, like acting recklessly, speeding, etc. The feds should not be involved one iota.
Exactly correct!
Best answer
the government doesn't care what you think unless you write down a letter or email or call your representative or senator to express your opinion. Further there are commercial industry groups like "peopleforbikes" lobbying for greater regulation.
Absolutely!
They don't care about tour safety, it's all about money
This really sounds like they're making a mountain out of a molehill (in regards to low speed eBikes).
My average speed on an ebIke is 15-17mph, compared to around 12 on an regular bike. But I also have better brakes.
In 2021 there were 1230 bicyclist deaths in the USA. If these 41 eBike deaths were part of that 1230, that's 3% of the deaths.
They'd be better off tackling bicycle accidents generally than focusing on eBikes. Bicycle accidents most commonly involve 15-20 years olds, because they haven't developed the street skills to keep themselves safe.
Rather than wasting money investigating eBike safety specifically, the money should be spent on freely available bicycle safety classes for anyone who wants to take one, whatever their age.
Also, big US vehicles with hoods at adult head height and poor visibility are far more dangerous to people not inside the vehicle, whether pedestrians or cyclists. I suspect a properly detailed breakdown of cyclist/pedestrian/vehicle accidents would show that the vehicle that hits the pedestrian/cyclist is more responsible for the pedestrian/cyclist's injuries or death than the pedestrian/cyclist's behavior or the bicycle itself.
Well said
I say bullshit to some of your statistics.
A bicycle can be peddled over 30+ mph and if a person jogging gets hit by the bicyclist it can result in severe injuries or even death to either one in the accident.
A jogger was killed by a bicyclist on a trail about 35 miles from me a little over 20 years ago it was in the newspaper so the bicyclist really was at fault running
too fast on a trail. A Ebike is far safer since most have Bells and a Horn to alert People. The Ebike rider should never run over 20 mph and use discretion or
"Common Sense" when riding on trails. All of the legislation is nonsense and about taxation since No Politician ever the Public's interest at heart and had a
controlreason for passing a law since it was for taxation, regulation and personal ego.
@@ezl8002You make sense but the OP was mainly talking about bike accidents involving automobiles on the street not accidents on bike trails.
It should not be based on watage but speed. Since I have a wheel chair and me at 245. Being limited on watage of the moter makes me put additional wear on a motor that would not be the same if I could use a larger 1000 or 1250 watt motor. The speed classing is a beter match.
Exactly. _Safety_ regulations, establish _minimum_ power handling requirements, to reduce risk of fire. Setting a maximum power handling limit, sets a lower bar for safety.
FWIW I'm not on board with the Eye of Sauron alighting on my favorite pastime that gets me outside to touch some grass and have fun.
Me neither. Use your brain to stay safe and just ignore the Karens and would-be nannies.
Would like to know how many of those accidents were from vehicles?, for the number of e-bikes the accident rates seem to be very low,
Government rule makers exist to think up rules that will bring in income from fines so that government can hire more rule makers. The government need not stick their noses into this at all.
This is called criminal conspiracy and premeditated victimization.
Our GOV is infested with Idiots chasing the $$$ and recognition for passing laws that inflate their EGOs (Narcissists). I would bet that none of them could walk
by a mirror without looking into it or a camera to make sure they are seen by the Public and it is reminiscent of Hollywood, doesn't it?
@geekfreak618
Better to have 4K lb automobiles hitting 70mph on the streets and byways with fools for drivers. Right?
Even if they change laws concerning ebikes, cops will still be ignorant to the laws.
They have worse crimes to worry about besides bikes
Just do the speed limit.
Yeah I don't think it'll really matter with the amount of illegal things I see on the streets of my city. but it's still concerning for what people will have access to
First time viewer here, ebiker since 2018. If feds get involved that over rules local laws, twenty mph and 750 watts motor. Helmet mandatory. The reason for helmet is ebike makes no sound compared to motorcycle. I wear a helmet and my local laws don't require them over 16 years old. I was right in front of a car, the driver never saw me until he almost hit me. I am a big guy and my bike is big. At night I actually feel safer, I have reflectors and reflecting tape everywhere, I also have led lights everywhere and very bright headlight. I'm a old man and I enjoy riding. So stay safe everyone.
About the deaths... would the same people have passed away in an accident if they had been riding a normal bike ?
Are any brain pieces stuck too the pavement ?
Considering that most ebike deaths involve motor vehicles (i.e. "hit by car/truck"), I would say yes.
I was taught that you should only wear a helmet if you have a head worth protecting. I don't even ride an analog bike without a helmet. The only drawback is helmet head hair after rides, a sacrifice I'm willing to make.
Speed & power limits on the e-bikes are absurd. The laws should address road speeds, like with cars.
Agree 100% with you on throttles. I also have health issues. I can pedal much further if not worried "can I pedal back?". I don't use it often but a throttle is a must.
Anecdotally I used to reach higher speeds on analog bikes than I ever have on an e-bike (including a 2500 watt e-bike), just not up hills.
The fastest bike I own is a road bike, going over 35 mph...
@@dougchrysler3694 In the early 80s, with the aid of a long hill, I pegged a speedo at 55mph. Just once! At the bottom of the hill I watched the cheap brake pads on my Huffy road bike turn to smoke. A cool visual but helpful to braking not so much. Ended up in the bushes on the other side of the road in a turn. Ah to be young and indestructible again.
55 mph, really? You had a speedometer on your cheap huffy and you were able to take your eyes off the road to even look at this make believe speedometer?
@@paul5683 While rude I will answer your suspicious question(s). YES, I had a cheap analog speedometer on my cheap Huffy. They were readily available in the 70s at any department store, much like my Huffy. I got mine at a Caldors. I'm sorry I didn't save the receipts for you. And YES on the long decline I had time to look at the "make believe" speedo.
FYI I was moving faster than 55mph but that was all the speedo read and it was literally "pegged" at 55.
I'm sorry you wasted your time on this and am afraid you'll have to find some bigger conspiracy to be worth anyones time.
@geekfreak618 That's why I like to DIY my e-bikes from analog bikes. That way I can control quality & I learn more about my e-bike and can track down problems. I can also match power & bicycle for custom desires or tasks. 2500 watts on my MTB is for long distance and/or hauling a dog trailer in comfort (not speed) & for local errands in the city I have a POS hybrid bike with a 750 watt motor detuned to 500 watts (set up for "class 2" status).
I've got a old Trek I converted to a mid drive. There are increased risks with the conversion. I have all the safety features on it. Brake shut off, shift cut out. The extra weight does make it a little harder to control on jumps. Really there are some safety issues with products on the market for conversion. The drive sprockets often have cut outs that you can get toes and fingers in. I specifically looked for sprockets without the cut outs. There are some things they can make safer without limiting the technology. The one thing I am considering is some sort of angle/fall shut off, I haven't come up with a solution that will not accidently trigger on a jump or steep bank turn. I over estimated my ability to climb a hill and flipped backwards-- the ebike didn't cause the flip I probably would of done the same on the analog bike. However by the time I came to a stop the bikes rear tire was on my leg and the pedal moved kicking on the drive wheel for a moment. Really my only injury was the burn from the tire doing a burn out on my leg.
(now the secret is its a 1000W/52v battery, but I also weigh 200lbs so I agree with you power should not be limited, if they want to limit it do it by speed not power so big people and little people can go the same speed) I for one think let the trails set speed limits and let the riders follow the speed limit.
I think bikes should be allowed to have modes. If I can set my bike to meet Class 1 parameters, or Class 2, 3. Then I should be able to operate where only class 1 is allowed if I set it to class 1. I don't want to own 5 bikes for different areas. My mountain bike will cover almost all categories and I will limit it to the trail requirements, I will respect the trail rules.
I often use it to ride with my teen son, I let him set the pace on his analog bike on the trail.
@ 71 & performing trail maintenance (pulling a 5 gal. bucket of asphalt sealer-tagging removal) i NEED a throttle, for pulling the trailer back up onto the trail surface, as we work on different spots.We have sold e-bikes or kits for 25 + years. Zap was an early one, Currie Tech also. I use a 10 year old I-Zip Path + w/cruise control & Burley Flatbed trailer for this work.
I'm in Riverside County. In one or two of our cities, we're having problems with young kids with these "high power" Ebikes. They are running amuck in parking lots full of people and vehicles. Our department is currently in the "Education phase" of this dilemma. Parents are purchasing these bikes for their children without doing the research on Ebike itself. On the 750 watt "rule" If you're tall and weigh 285 pounds, you'll need more than 750 watts to move that bike. No, I don't weigh 285 pounds. Like you said, we have speed limits and traffic rules that both bicycles and vehicles have to follow. I have a Mustang. It is fast. (Chevy and Mopar fans, shut your mouth) I/we have the power to go beyond the speed limit. If you break the law, a deputy has the discretion to either scratch a cite or not to scratch a cite. People just need to ride with common sense.
Micro-mobility/PEV overreactions are because they are new and novel. There are more accidents per rider on traditional bikes, skateboards, rollerblades and skates, ATVs, snowmobiles, motorcycles, and certainly automobiles. Speed is a factor, but there are plenty of riders on those more-traditional vehicles who go fast. If there is a trail speed limit for eBikes, it should apply to every other bike on that trail. The next factor is momentum (mass times velocity) because I would rather get hit by a kid on a skateboard than by a pickup truck - even at the same speed, so it might make sense to have some weight-based classifications.
That’s too much logic for the authoritarian driven sociopath.
Thank you Kyle for the heads up on this important topic. Let’s all try to do our best to make crisp, concise & powerful comments that persuade regulators to promulgate rules that support rider safety without compromising features that enable people of diverse abilities to experience the fun and freedom our micro-mobility platform provides.
Hey, the CPSC was instrumental for me and other owners in forcing Rad Power Bikes to finally recall the defective proprietary/exclusive tires on their RadWagon 4 cargo e-bike. The sidewalls were splitting resulting in an immediate and "explosive" deflation, sometimes while the bike was just parked but also when the bike was in use, including while carrying small children passengers. Rad was denying responsibility for all of this and even basically blacklisted me in their support system (for any issue -- not just tires) even during my warranty period because I kept pushing the issue. As a result of the CPSC getting involved (they interviewed me multiple times), Rad was forced to recall/replace all the RW4 tires, and Rad ended up offering me a return/full refund on my bike even though I owned it for 11 months and 2500 miles, which I happily accepted and quickly put the company in my rear view mirror with a different brand if e-bike.
So I wouldn't say that it's always a bad thing with the CPSC getting involved. Other agencies of the government, maybe, but I kind of like it when the CPSC gets involved in such things because it stops companies like Rad from ignoring or even bullying their own customers.
people who say that ebikes are mopeds are those who a) don't want to share the road with anyone who exceeds speeds 15mph B) never been on an ebike. If anything, regulations should be put in place for manufacturers who sell you bikes with crummy brakes. Good brakes save lives.
Not true: I ride an 80 pound 1KWh 1440W moped, & configured that way, it's legal for use on roads
Also, yes to good brakes; although stopping distance regulations might upset some EUC enthusiasts...
I am 75 and been on ebikes 10 years. Sad to see this, however understand. I see some nuts on the roads on bikes and ebike and yes cars trucks and 4WD. Ride safe and take care.
I'm with you brother! Why should responsible people like us pay the price? Vaya con Dios! ☮️
65 year old, disabled seniors for no more regulations on E bike battery size, etc..😮
they need to look at motorcycle accidents which ARE actually approved by the CPSC
72 year old class 1-2-3 e-bike rider/motorcycle rider here.
Any senior e-bike rider with a motorcycle endorsement should be allowed to ride any e-bike he/she chooses to. Manufacturers should be forced to have safety standards for their e-bikes, especially in regards to breaking abilities. There should be a standard breaking ability ie the ability to come to a complete stop from a designated speed , ie x stopping distance from 20 mph.
I agree with you that having a throttle along with pedals poses no additional risk to anyone. For senior riders having the ability to quickly get to a bathroom without having to pedal removes a great deal of potential stress. Having to pedal when in bathroom distress only increases the potential of having a mess in one’s pants. Young riders won’t have a clue about this dynamic but hopefully mature law makers will totally get it.
Should require no licencing. I cannot get a license due to a disability. And should not need permission and tax from the state to ride a bike.
Don't you mean braking abilities, not "breaking" abilities?
Yes , in my saying “riders with a motorcycle endorsement should be allowed to ride any e-bike” I wasn’t insinuating that any license should be required. However, IF the powers that be should legislate that a license would be required, those who already have a motorcycle endorsement would be exempt from having to jump through additional hoops just to ride an e-bike. At the same time I’m not in favor of children operating e-bikes capable of higher speeds on traffic laden roadways.
Unfortunately common sense has become a thing of the past thus necessitating the implementation of additional regulations to protect the innocent.
It should just be breaking as you can"t even count on people to know active from passive, use punctuation, or to use adverb versions of words (such as drive safely not drive safe). Then you have autocorrection, typing goofs, and Mrs. Pellins.
Ill never own another e-bike because of the build quality. Had a super73 frame break at the welds (they welded two bicycle frames together in parallel and the welds snapped from daily riding. A friend had their Super73 (different model) break at the forks. Seen the same weld issues in other bikes as well
I don’t usually comment but I’ve watched your videos for years. I’m not sure how your health is doing but from appearance best you’ve ever looked. Love the videos great job
Im 63 and ride a modified Surron in and around Pittsburgh with my two sons (40/42 years old). They both ride straight peddle bikes and maintain speeds of 20 to 35 MPH for 70 miles. I have over 40k miles on my bike and have been stopped one time in Wheeling WVa, no helmet, no peddles. No ticket. I am on disability and cant peddle. My bike will exceed 80 MPH, but I HEED ALL traffic laws and for most of the time im putt-zing around 20/30 MPH. LEAVE US ALONE uncle sam.....
63 also, but the fact is that sometimes regulations need to be in place for good measure. A couple paths in my area have banned e-bikes all together.
Makes me glad that the trike I've been looking at hits 20 MPH and not over it seems.
I wear a full face snowmobile helmet now (got it at start of winter). Possibly looking into a regular motorcycle helmet for summer time (full face and maybe cooler?).
My electric bicycle company model c is awesome. I had a stroke and stopped riding my old bike because I was afraid of straining too much up hills. On the ebike I can put it in medium assist and ride with low to moderate effort at 15mph. If it’s hot and I just want to go home I can use the throttle only and enjoy the breeze while getting home safely. I’m getting more exercise on my bike than ever before (not counting childhood) because it’s safe and fun to ride.
Control freaks want to revoke every trace of liberty you have left.
Having just run the gauntlet of getting a motorcycle license, registration,insurance,helmet,class, I now understand why there are fewer and fewer motorcycles on the road. It is a hassle & expense that not many will want ro go through. So much easier to have a sheepel car.
But it did show me how I prefer my flexible, quiet, non-regulated ebike.
These well intentioned regs with put a further damper on riding a ebike.
What next a manitory state inspection on our E bikes? Fight back get involved, save our freedom. Vote no size of batteries, motor s,etc. Just follow speed limits..😮
Oh great, another opportunity for big brother to collect more money from law abiding citizens in the name of safety. Wonder what they will do with the proceeds
Revenue for the city.
First let me qualify myself: I am a retired electronics and process controls technician. I have delt with motor controller and motor power matching for a long time.
My biggest point of contention with the majority of state laws is the wattage limit of the motor - typically limiting to 750 watts. Instead the limits need to be based on the total power output of the controller, NOT the power handling capability of the motor. If your motor is 750 watts and you run with a 1000 watt capable controller, your motor is not going to last nearly as long as a 1000watt (or higher) motor limited to 750 watts by the controller.
The fact is that the wattage rating of the motor does not determine it's maximum speed. Instead the wattage rating of the motor is a *maximum stress rating.* A controller capable of delivering 1000 watts WILL and does indeed deliver more power to a 750 watt rated DC motor than the motor can handle. The motor will run faster, but it will burn up it's coils much sooner. It's the controller output that determines maximum speed of the motor.
The problem is that law makers and people in general think the wattage rating of the motor is equivalent to horse power rating of a combustion engine. It is not. If you must use the combustion engine analogy, having a controller limited to 750 watts is like putting a fuel flow restrictor on a 1000 horse power engine. Regardless of it's total horse power rating, the engine is only going to turn up to the speed allowed by the restricted amount of fuel.
For understanding: A 110 volt, 100 watt light bulb can be "driven" by a 110 watt power input simply by raising the voltage by 10 volts. Most people realize this shortens the life of the bulb. On the other hand, a 110 volt, 100 watt bulb driven by 90 watts of power (reduce the voltage by 10 volts or limit the current to .85 amps) and the bulb will last much longer. The wattage rating of the bulb doesn't limit how brightly the bulb burns, but it ONLY tells how much power it can safely and reliably handle.
Appreciate the Heads up. I ckmmented the following "I ride both a tradition bicycle and an e-bike on a regular basis. e-bikes pose no hreat hazard than a traditional bicycle in my opinion. Regulating e-bike or bicycles if any should be left for the individual states to decide."
sometimes its hard to know how far to bendover how about the gov who cant manage or enforce the laws they have try to use them first.
I hope there is a federal improvement for making the road safer for bikers. I'm too often afraid of mustang before I'm afraid of my bike.
I bought a Voltbike Yukon 750 about 5 years ago, absolutely zero issues or regrets. Even the battery seems to be just as powerful as the day I bought it.
Sorry to hear you had such a bad experience with yours, e-bike is such a good way to spend time outdoors.
The whole pedal vs. throttle question is ridiculous. When you look at actual pedal assist motor controllers, they require NO pedal effort at all. That is, as long as you are moving the pedals, they will accelerate to the maximum speed in the selected speed range. So there is no valid reason to make a distinction between pedal assist and throttle operation.
I think the two biggest factors are people who don't know what they're doing on a regular bike or able to rent e-bikes or buy e-bikes and the second issue is the lack of bike infrastructure in a lot of places where they just put you next to the cars and wish you good luck but if you go to like Denmark pretty much the whole country is dedicated to safe riding on bicycles
I saw someone on a bike path today and they were in a tiny one-seat electric car.
I try to say hi to all E-riders but they had their windows up.
How do ebike fatalaties compare to those on pedal bikes?
Ill never own another e-bike because of the build quality. Had a super73 frame break at the welds (they welded two bicycle frames together in parallel and the welds snapped from daily riding. A friend had their Super73 (different model) break at the forks. Seen the same weld issues in other bikes as well.
The problem is that e-bikes are so varied. If there are no pedals and it can exceed 30mph, it's an electric motorcycle. If it is a 'sidewalk scooter', capable of 20mph, it is way too fast for pedestrian areas. The single-wheel scooters are a super hazard because the riders are insane. Couple that with the fact that very few even pay slight attention to road rules and road safety, and add to that the horrible way cars treat bike riders of all sorts, and it's just a matter of time for fatal accidents.
I ride an e-trike, motor cuts off PAS at 14mph, I have taillights, brake lights, headlight, mirror, and horn.
I have less issues with my e bike vs my non powered bike. My e bike is bright blue my 18 speed non powered bike is dark blue, car's don't see the bike as well as the e bike. I got into a slide on a gravel road with both and the e bike did better because I could keep my feet still and use the motor to get me out of the slide, the non powered bike slid out from under me and I went 1/2 way down. I can get out of the way in traffic better with the e bike. Dogs can't catch me on the e bike but on the non powered bike I have to be careful. I like to ride the e bike more and it seems to help my breathing, balance and leg strength, I am 55. I drive the car less since I got the e bike so less CO2 and car expenses. My e bike goes 28 mph and is a 750 watt, my non powered bike I had up to 27 mph
A throttle assist is extremely helpful in many situations, particularly in getting going and crossing intersections from a stop.
My ebike can go 48 mph but it can also be limited to 20 mph in pedal assist 2. I think this is something that should be considered in relation to bike trails.
Department of transportation law- (going on memory) pending on the state the bicycle speed limit is 20-30 mph. Moped speed- 30ish-40ish mph need to registered. Motorcycle speed- 40mph+. We have these law in effect now. So in my opinion follow the current laws.
Those laws are based on the CCs (size) of the gas motor, not the speed alone. So they will not work for ebikes.
Some people just like to have something to complain about. you have to be responsible for your own actions. I ride my ebike on our trails all the time. people just like to point there finger.
I concur. My spine makes my pedal assist great to ride, but I can’t hit 28mph as I did a year ago. I wish I had a throttle now.
Well.
If it's the person who's right in the e bike, they should be responsible for riding a bike, it's like a car. It has a throttle you can control the speeds that you can be safe. But you've got people who don't pop-up with stuff with they do, as they're going to do pop wheels. Do it in a background somewhere, so there's no cops. No, people around all you gotta do is ride the bike normally where you're on the road. You can follow the speeds. You can do you could go fast if you want to go slow. I have a high-powered bike so I do between 15 and 20 I can control my own speeds. It's the operator of the bike. That's why people are getting two accidents because they're careless of driving the Well do you speak😊
Number one government agency should not be involved in this because at the heart of it they really know nothing about electric bikes as their questions show. They’re asking peoples opinions, basically wanting mob rule so if a bunch of people don’t like electric bikes, we will heavily regulate them if they like them will leave them alone. That is emotional based law, not fact law. i’ve been a professional bike mechanic for over 25 years. I absolutely love electric bikes. Most of them are extremely safe. Our class system on bikes is sufficient. It should be modified slightly as you said however we have speed limits. We have our standard rules of the road. These are adequate, and these can be enforced. We don’t need more fluff more regulation and more complication which the government will and has always brought to the table.this is the same organization that made people stop buying children’s motorcycles for about one year and cost the motorcycle industry millions of dollars because the motorcycle engine had too much lead in it because they wrote the law poorly
make biking safer with better planned out bike lanes then people wouldn't have to increase the speed on their bikes to catch up on the road
Upgrading to a Emoto in a week. still going to ride my ebike for some occasions. Whats next? regulate skateboards?
A lot of people e-bike safety concerns fail to recognize that most of their points apply equally to motorcycles.
I know quite a few people with the attitude that roads are for cars and no one rides for free.
Limits on excelleration of a motorcycle or a bicycle is a hazard to the bicyclist. I had two bicycle accidents in my life because I did not have the power to get out of the way of a car. Which is why I commuted by motorcycle for ten years in CA. and Florida.
Bicyclist or motorcyclist
I really appreciate your well structured video and clear points.
I do think that you would have more impact if you prepared an appropriate and impactful example submission that people could use and modify if they wish. Make it as easy as possible for people to participate and get your informed and respected recommendations submitted. Include the specific instructions as well.
Thank you for your work on this and for adocating a rational evolution of bike safety policy.
what folks do not understand nor discern is that this is not about safety. How do you pass a law without the people's vote. Although there isn't much information on the amount of non ebikes in California. But according to a survey, it is estimated that In 2022, 54.7 million people in the United States rode a bike at least once a year. That number is not even close to being accurate. This is simply big legislation, regulation and eventually taxation in a money hungry state. The wealth are behind this as well as law enforcement.
Remember in some jurisdiction, law enforcement ride ebikes also, but their ebikes does not allow them to go over 20mph, so they won't be able to keep up with a e bike that can go 30 plus in speed. I am a law abiding citizen , but this is one law I will not comply with. I ride respectfully, wear a helmet, have my own personal insurance and obey all road laws pertaining to any bike driven.
Lastly, let me point out. I was the admin for sacramento critical mass facebook group for years and worked and have spoken in meetings with the sacramento bike coalition in regards to bike safety, green bike lanes etc... I can tell you first hand, that if you go to any bike trail in the California region, you with see regular non e bike cyclist (especially road bikes) single handedly and with groups riding the trails screaming at individuals walking at 25 plus miles an hour. Now I can see all the karens and kens smiling and loving this law. These are the folks on the trail that yell at you and say "you can't be on the trail with your ebaik" I bought it, and I will be darned if I allow the state to regulate what I purchase with my own money for outdoor enjoyment as well as to and from appointments, work etc...
I can understand speed limits. But what does power have to do with anything other than being able to keep up speed on steep hills.
Fortunately I do not live in the US and 1500 watts or 110 cc's and 70 KPH with functional pedals is all that is required.
I agree with rule changes if we are not further restricted. European 250 watt limits would outlaw the vast majority of US bikes and limit their usefulness to areas without hills.
Don't forget, to get that one-time plate you need DOT tyres, DOT headlight and turn signals, and a horn. This is a lot to add to e-bikes. After adding all that, it is hard to argue that it is still an e-bike.
Caught this just in time, thank you. The fact that ebikes are designated differently than a regular bike (which has zero speed limiters) is my biggest peeve. Here's what I wrote:
Stop calling them and legislating them as e-bikes. They're just bikes.
Solely pedal powered and electric powered bicycles are not necessarily different in their speed capabilities or danger level to the driver or to passersby. I've easily gone over 40mph on a human powered bike, and also been on an ebike limited to 20mph while pedal bikes raced past at more than twice the speed.
What *would* be useful is better categorisation of the *use* of bikes so that they're not a grey area in so much of the country.
Oh, and your chart of "deaths by ebike" is nonsensical at best. Disregarding the fact that in terms of methods of transportation, cycling (ebike or otherwise) poses probably the least harm to others, almost nobody had one when the chart started.
Most of the Ebike deaths were caused by cars hitting them (88%), just like cars killing motorcycle riders (78%). Last year 1,490 people died on regular bicycles and 86,000 were injured and hospitalized. I don't think any new regulation is warranted based on the risks of regular bike riding that's not regulated at all. The Actuary tables don't support it. Having said all that, I went down hard at only 12-14 mph on my Rad Rover 5 coming out of a single track trail and got dragged about 100 feet on wet ground. I was wearing a helmet but not a scratch on it. Did a split like a high school cheerleader, tore all the ligaments from my pelvis, and tore open my left leg. While I was learning to walk again my more-powerful Himiway bike arrived in it's box that I ordered before the crash! Lol! 😆😆😆😆My wife stuck it in the storage unit so I wouldn't try to put it together and ride it! When she went to Florida last week to see her sister, I unpacked it, tuned it up, and took that baby out on the road!!
Glad to hear you're up & around! I fractured my hip, throwing the chain on a _manual_ bicycle, & a bicycle got me back in motion months before I could walk without pain. We got a large ebike ~3 years ago, which goes great in snow\etc. I only need an automobile for _loooong_ trips now, & it's marvelous!
Better brakes would help. My mechanic says mine on my Aventon Sinch aren’t strong enough for the bike’s power.
Just watched the episode on ebike legislature (kudos} and you say mopeds are obviously not ebikes yet many times I hear reference to moped style ebikes. Seems rather cloudy. They remind me more of the minibikes with the old Briggs or Tecumseh horizontal shaft that many of us remember growing up. (With just a modern technological twist) Been a big fan of your channel for some time. Keep up the great 👍 work!☮️
1) laws exist class 1/2=bicycle. Laws by state. 2) (your question) Any ebike that can exceed 28 should have a VIN #, so state law can be adhered(moped law). 3) how many hospital/deaths are from unpowered Bicycles (is there a difference in%)?
- motor power is dumb (EU). To be limited, rule have to be controller watts (amps x volts) supplied (this is really for the EU silly rules).
-on my unpowered 21lb bicycle I would exceed 28 on daily route, so class law speeds make sense.
- How many people have been killed by legal ebikes? (i know of only one)
Hello! I am 74, have been riding e-bikes/trikes for 10 years as my primary transport. I have had no mech issues other than flat tires. I find it interesting that many states have a 50cc or less policy on gas motors for bikes and 50cc motors have 2.5 horsepower (capable of 60mph). A 750 watt e-bike is one horsepower. The RPM is regulated to 470 and the max speed is 25mph. Rear drive can be unstable on dirt due to fishtailing. Front drive is stable. Regards
just put the safty washers on the front rim with two nuts and its all good the quick release on the front aint good,you just dont need it if you aint racing
It's bad to compare us to europe for these standards simply because many countries allow/force bike riding on the sidewalks with pedestrians. Riding 28mph 5 feet from the Aldi front entrance is not what we US ebike riders are trying to be compared to.
Ya I think that the motor wattage shouldn't be restricted. I am a big guy and with the current ones they either can't get me up some hills or the motor has burned out.
I appreciate your channel & input, you've made ebikes your job & you're doing it most awesomely! You're analytical as am I, nitty gritty details matter! Was very sorry to hear about your struggles with weird medical issues involving balance? Holy Crap ~ the worst thing!!!!! Sincerely Sorry, but you seem better & I hope you Truly Are!👍 Moving on, have a need for an ebike, with pedals, capable of
carrying 2 adults with a very long seat? We are not stick people, I weigh 175 lbs, fully clothed at 5'10" she's 5' 3" rounded & top heavy, (Ya-hoo).. 180 lbs or ? Can't Ask 😅
So there's the Power Goat V2 ??
Extremely long seat & very high weight carrying capacity 450 lbs?!
Would be great to hear your assessment on that bike, with a passenger, & perhaps a small goat
& a few chickens? 😅 Seriously & Sincerely 😊
high speed e-bikes (31 mph +) or e-bikes with no pedals should be considered a moped or if fast enough a electric motor cycle and have the same licensing and restrictions as a moped/motor cycle . however, a class 2 or class 3 bike should be able to go up to 30 MPH and have a throttle as a lot of roads that we use have that speed limit and so would create less congestion and i feel would be safer because of that when used on road. I would also like there to be better breaking requirements. I did install hydraulics on mine and am considering a larger Roter to help make stopping easier if needed in an emergency . the hydraulic upgrade I got from Area 13 made a big difference.
I can get my 21 speed schwinn to about 20 mph pretty easily. Should I be banned from the trials?
When are you going to find the right Reverse Trike???? Like the iTank or the like????
The 750 watt rule is silly, at least for us here in California the hills make it impossible for a 750 watt ebike to go uphill at the rated speed with a commuter, ebike and his gear. If you are trying to get to work without needing a shower you want to be able to get up the hills at traffic speed to maximize safety. Ebike classes by speed are fine but lose the power rules, it takes more power for a cargo or tandem or serious (heavy) commute bicycle. You don't want to go slower than traffic at least up to 35 mph and create a roadblock where there is no bike lane. The older rule in California was 1000 watts and even that is not enough to go uphill at safe traffic speeds. Reasonable speed limits determined by safety are fine, power limits are not consistent with the way we manage vehicle safety in general. Bike lanes should have speed limits, not power limits. Speed limits should be defined by traffic safety and conditions, such as those near schools that drop when children are present but are higher at other times. It doesn't matter whether a bike is pedal or electric powered, all speed limits (including bike lanes) should be related to safety. Faster ebikes (30+) require more training and traffic awareness such as a moped license. Regulating equipment is not a solution to speeding.
I live in the mountains in France and i can witness how stupid the 250w limit is. It is meant for people living in flat towns to avoid to compete with mopeds. I bought the LMX 2000w bike you advertised some time ago, and i have to pay an insurance, put a license plate, put a helmet on, have front and rear lights, a side miror..and now have to go 30 kilometers away to get my bike checked every 3 years! Very costly for a bike that can only be used out of the snow and mud season, which is 4 month a year
I live in Ireland, the law is ridiculous, anything over 250 Watts, 25 km/h pedal assist or has a throttle, requires insurance, road tax, motorcycle helmet and cannot be used on cycle lanes...
I live on a very big hill . I dont need so much speed , but definitely need power enough to keep up with traffic at speed 35mph ! 9500watts =35mph on a 30% grade .
My question is since the cops consider the Ebikes that go over 40 to 50 miles an hour a motorcycle could I take the DMV motorcycle test and get my license that way with the ebike
Footnote 9 and 10 refer to data but no source to chart or if chart is related. Besides at what speed did these accident's happen?
Well.
If it's the person who's right in the e bike, they should be responsible for riding a bike, it's like a car. It has a throttle you can control the speeds that you can be safe. But you've got people who don't pop-up with stuff with they do, as they're going to do pop wheels. Do it in a background somewhere, so there's no cops. No, people around all you gotta do is ride the bike normally where you're on the road. You can follow the speeds. You can do you could go fast if you want to go slow. I have a high-powered bike so I do between 15 and 20 I can control my own speeds. It's the operator of the bike. That's why people are getting two accidents because they're careless of driving the😊
Great video thanks! I was one of those statistics for ER visit after an ebike crash and while I did crash on an ebike, the exact same outcome would have occurred had it been on a regular bike. The ebike had no part in the equation. So the stats could be skewed in that respect.
@geekfreak618 nothing to do with torque or speed. it was the height of the concrete (which was only 1.5") and the angle approached which deflected the front wheel. Shoulda pulled up but didn't seem to be necessary. Have thousands of miles on 6 diff bikes so most my incidents happen due to over confidence or carelessness.
We the people should start a group called that, to protect our freedom to ride with what ever horsepower we want, but follow the posted speed limit..😊😊😊😊😊
Anyone remember that "avid biking lady" who wasnt wearing a helmet, ran into a (12yr old?) child on an ebike and died.. because she wasnt wearing a helmet? And then they just outright banned ebikes because CHILD was clearly at fault for her not putting on a helmet.. real tragedy
Cherry picking isolated incidents while ignoring the automobile-shaped elephant in the room.
@@prophetzarquon yeah I mean cars are real easy to see it's the bicycles that people apparently don't see. I've rode my euc to work 5 days a week for a year and a half now people stopped thinking they could get in front of me when I stopped giving them the chance
Apparently he has not seen the video's of the Crazy Sur ron ebikers going thru LA. People will always do crazy things if you let them.
I most definitely have. Seems silly to make new laws if they don't even enforce the current ones.
Illegal is a SICK BIRD
I'm so sick of the government trying to keep me safe!
Not all of Government... Just the Lefties.
There doesn't need to be more regulation of ebikes. All they need to do is enforce the laws already on the books. There are some people who break all kinds of laws on an ebike. I've seen videos of ebikers going through every stop sign and stop light, riding fast on sidewalks etc. My ebike will go 25 mph but I always use pedal assist and never even hit 20 mph. I wear a high visibility bike helmet and obey all the laws. I have a rear view mirror on the left side. Ebikes pollute less and reduce our dependency on fossil fuels. I heard, recently, that demand for gasoline has dropped mostly because of ebikes in the US.
Exactly. We already have speed limits on almost every route. Just enforce that! _(& noise ordinance violations, while you're at it!?)_
3 practices for sharing spaces:
1: Go slow
2: Be quiet
3: Leave no trace
@@prophetzarquon It definitely isn't difficult to guess who you two vote for.
speed limits on bike trails 20mph reasonable - lower limits in high traffic areas - use current classification system but allow class 3 to have a throttle - 750 watt limit for unlicensed category ebikes - ebikes having more than 750 watts and/or able to go more than 28mph are motor scooters - all scooter rules apply.
bet your cupboards are organised a good widget person
Golf Foxtrot Yankee
if i get the bafang mid drive kit whats the cheapest battery i can get to make it work
OK ... i heard it and now here's my .02 on classifying all these..keep it simple and well defined.. 1-pedal assist (bike with no throttle and pedals, requires pedaling to have the assist work) is an e-bike of a certain class for 20mph and higher class for 28mph. 2-One with pedals and a throttle is a MOPED just like the gas powered ones with pedals and a throttle ...and probably should be capped same as a Moped at 30mph and same Moped regulation.. after all, it IS just an electric MOPED instead of a gas one. 3-One with a throttle control for speed and NO pedals is defined as an electric Scooter, cap them where you want ( like 50mph and not authorized for hiway use ) and require a registration.. Maybe any larger engine and over 50mph consider it a small motorcycle. People should be able to live with this. The throttle designation is needed. And I'll add that mountain bike trails that don't allow gas dirt bikes should not allow throttle controlled e-bikes ( really is an e-dirt bike) They should allow e-bikes that are pedal assist. That might ruffle some feathers but it really is a fair compromise. Just my .02 but I think it''s fair classifications.
I am waiting on my V3 Goat as well. There in!
I don't know what good it will do but I signed the petition. I don't need an e-bike that goes 90 mph I need one that is powerful to go up hills with camping gear and myself with a Cannondale wagon which they don't make any more and they should start...... I have had dozens of people ask me where did I get the wagon.. I used to carry my kids to visits with me in the wagon when I used to be able to Pedal but now I have one leg and I cannot pedal. My bike has almost 1,600 me I could not believe the hills I went up with the wagon on the way home from Rochester New York to Batavia Google Maps got me lost 10 miles out of the way but I have 2. ...20 amp hours and 1 ...13 amp hour
There are more non-motorized bicycle fatalities and there are no restrictions. Cities/towns need to provide marked bike lanes. Riders should be encouraged to wear a bright colored reflective vest that makes the rider much more visible. And helmets should be encouraged! The government needs to keep their hands off! Parents need to monitor their kids. But kids can ride non-motorized bicycles and they are a hazard unless supervised!