Revised September 25, 2024
Update: Neither Shorewood leadership, nor Three Rivers have taken any public action about the e-bikes in Badger Park (next to city hall), on the Smithtown sidewalk or the Lake Minnetonka Trail. The usage has not dropped, the speeds are excessive and the noise and chaos caused by young crowds on e-bikes affects all other users.
Next Gen of E-bikes are here for 2024
E-bikes are safer than motorcycles: Not!
SLMPD Chief interviewed on FOX 9 re. E-Bikes in Excelsior (2023)
Three Rivers Rules for E-Bikes (LRT trail included)
Minnesota’s “Idaho Stop” Law for Bicycles
Had any talks about e-bikes lately? Was the focus on youth, speed and dangerous behavior? Welcome to the public conversation permeating parties, social media and police calls.
Shorewood council member Zerby reported on Apr. 22nd, 2024 that the Public Safety committee had discussed e-bikes and decided to let the police department and City of Excelsior take the lead.
First thing to know, even though these bikes are powered by battery, they are considered true bicycles, not motor vehicles.
If you believe something can be done about it legally, well, as they say, “you have another think coming.” Visits to SLMPD left several residents frustrated by the many reasons police say their hands are tied. The July 17 Excelsior City Council discussion with a police officer was inconclusive.
How do we fix this?
There are challenges specifically with the Class 2 (electric moped/mini-bike) style e-bike:
- “Off-road mode” can reach 37 mph.
- Riders are not licensed or insured.
- Helmets not required.
- RIDERS MUST BE 15 yo.
- No passengers allowed unless the bike is specifically built for two humans.
- New MN Law does not require “bicycles” to stop at stop signs.
- Trails, sidewalks and streets are not designed to accommodate this type of use.
- People are demanding accountability and getting none.
- So far, law enforcement implies “there is little we can do.”
Learn more about the capabilities (read the full article here) of the Class 2 models that are compromising the safety of precious pedestrian and pleasure rider spaces.
“The Ride1Up REVV 1 e-moped is a powerful yet hefty option for riders seeking a ‘motorcycle-style’ e-bike. In all, reviewers say the REVV 1 is for “fun over exercise”. With a 750W motor and 25-28A controller, it’s tuned to put out up to 95 Nm of torque. It ships as a Class 2 ride, topping out at 20 mph, but owners can opt into an unlocked ‘Off-Road Mode’. This is largely illegal for the streets, but it opens the REVV 1 up to higher top speeds on ‘private roads’. One tester redlined at 37 mph.” Source Bikeride.com
What you can do:
- Expect action from city and state leaders, i.e., they must create enforceable laws and ordinances.
- Report to your public safety department and ask for data on e-bike “encounters.”
- Be the “squeaky wheel!”
