Peter Ponders… E-Yikes, A New Pedal-Powered Predicament

Watch your step, pedestrians. Be careful when you are out walking or jogging. You must be on the lookout for... electric bicycles.

I’ve come thisclose to getting clipped by a person riding one of the new high-tech electric bicycles or one of those battery-operated scooters. These vehicles can reach speeds from 10 mph up to 28 mph. That’s fast enough to do real damage if there is a collision.

My first of many close calls came a few months ago while I was taking my daily walk along the Cross Seminole Trail in the center of Lake Mary. I was walking along when, out of the corner of my eye, I sensed someone silently approaching my left side. I turned slightly to the left to see who was coming and almost turned directly into the person.

Many accidents could be avoided by a simple warning shout like “passing on the left” or “passing on the right.” It’s just common courtesy, and many veteran bikers do this religiously.

If it seems e-bikes are everywhere all of a sudden, they are. Almost two million e-bikes were sold in the U.S. last year.

Riders say e-bikes are just like bicycles – with a small exception: An electric bike gives the rider a boost going uphill. Unless you’re pedaling up the great Mount Dora, there aren’t too many opportunities to experience the uphill adrenalin rush here in Florida.

In the Sunshine State, e-bikes are governed by the same laws as regular bicycles. However, there are exceptions. A sign posted at the entrance to the Cross Seminole Trail reads “No Motor vehicles.” That means the fastest, 28-mph Class 3 e-bikes are technically not allowed on the trail at all. And, a new Florida law requires all Class 3 e-bike riders to be at least 16 years old. All riders are urged to wear helmets, and regardless of what type of bike you’re on, riders under 16 are required to wear one. Lights and reflective gear must be present on e-bikes just like regular bikes, too.