FABB joins with the League of American Bicyclists (LAB) in encouraging people to Speak Up! on government e-bike safety rules by May 14, 2024. This topic affects everyone who rides and new rules will benefit greatly from the input of those of us with experience using and cycling with other e-bikes riders.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is currently gathering information to potentially update existing rules, and they need our input. This is a golden opportunity for all e-bike users to share their experiences and ensure the safety guidelines truly benefit all riders and other road, trail, and path users.
LAB provides a detailed discussion of the issues surrounding existing and potential rules. A key matter is whether the federal government should adopt a 3-class system for e-bikes, similar to what many states use. This system helps distinguish e-bikes by their speed capabilities and how they’re powered, which can significantly impact how they’re regulated and where they can be used. It’s crucial that any new regulations are clear and consistent to avoid confusion and ensure that all types of e-bikes are used safely and appropriately.
Another key issue is how out-of-class e-bikes — those that exceed typical e-bike speeds — should be managed. There’s a concern that these faster models could complicate access to trails and paths meant for lower speeds, potentially leading to safety risks. Your thoughts on how these types of e-bikes have affected your cycling experience could be invaluable in shaping the CPSC’s approach.
In addition to speed, the CPSC is considering new standards for e-bike equipment like brakes and lights. Given that e-bikes are generally heavier and faster than traditional bicycles, these features are critical for rider safety. If you’ve had experiences where the performance of an e-bike’s brakes or lights made a difference, your feedback could help establish more suitable requirements.
If you have insights on e-bikes used by children, or any specific mechanical issues, those are particularly valuable. For instance, how do children handle the power and speed of e-bikes? Are there certain features that should be standardized to make these bikes safer for younger riders?
Your voice matters in this discussion, and sharing your experiences can lead to better, safer cycling environments for everyone.
All comments should be submitted through regulations.gov by May 14, 2024, and include a reference to the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the comment period docket number CPSC-2024-0008.
This isn’t just about rules; it’s about making sure that as e-bike technology advances, safety remains a top priority. Please share your insights today.
