Fountain Hills working with MSCO on addressing e-bike complaints

By Andrew Lwowski
Mail

Captain Kevin Thomas of Maricopa County District 7 Sheriff’s Office of Fountain Hills says the town has received an uptick in comments regarding the use of e-bikes. MCSO has not had an increase in calls however, he added. 

“I met with the Town recently and we discussed ideas and directions to provide the needed attention on the increased incidents,” Thomas said in an email. 

Recently, the town released photos of damage due to electric bikes, including tire marks, divots and other markings in local parks and fields. 

There has also been a rise in reckless speeds and racing next to pedestrians, says town public information officer Mike Pelton. 

“While we want everyone who uses these E-bikes  to enjoy themselves, it needs to be in accordance with the law and with respect to property and fellow members of the public,” he said in an email. Pelton added that ball fields have required extra maintenance in the infields, due to the bikes. 

Thomas reminded the Town during its December town council meeting on the usage of electric vehicles, classifications needed and safety required ahead of the holidays and are often a popular gift.

There are three classifications of electric bikes, according to information provided by Thomas. Class 1 motors can only assist riders while actively pedaling the bike and the motor stops assisting at 20 miles per hour. 

Class 2 bikes have motors that assist the rider with or without pedaling, though the motors stops after reaching 20 mph and is 750 watts. Both Class 1 and Class 2 motors can be used on roadways, sidewalks and multi-use paths. 

Class 3 bikes can assist the rider with or without pedaling and stops assisting at 28 mph and are only permitted to roadways and bike lanes adjacent to roadways.

All three motors have less than 750 watts.

Pelton says the town is in discussion with MCSO on how to handle the incidents and will release additional information soon. 

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Andrew Lwowski
Reporter | North Valley

alwowski@iniusa.org

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