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E-bike use on trails should be limited

November 24, 2023

I would love to see you writing about e-bikes. They have begun to plague our local bike and walking trails, and have become a frequent topic of discussion and frustration with many. It's extremely important that this topic be discussed and that our representatives better understand the deep frustration of so many and start placing some rules and regulations similar to other states.

As daily trail users (walking and cycling), we have been buzzed and startled multiple times by fast-moving electric bikes at close quarters. It is shocking how fast the riders go weaving in and around pedestrians and other bikers. We've witnessed several close calls and even hostilities and screaming as a frightened biker has to move out of the way. It's a situation where an accident and maybe even a real altercation is waiting to happen. 

We need some new regulations and reinforcement, particularly regarding limiting e-bikes to Type 1 only (limited speed and pedaling is required) to restore the joy of the trails with no fear of being hit or hearing motorized vehicles’ loud sounds. The bike path rules are marked saying "no motorized vehicles."  Any bike that moves without pedaling is an electric motorcycle. There is no reason they should not be treated the same as a fuel-driven scooter or motorbike, and subject to the same licensing and use rules.

Morty Bachar
Lewes

 

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