DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Daytona Beach leaders will hear a new proposal on Thursday night that would add strict new rules for e-bikes, bicycles and motorized pedicabs.
The proposed ordinance bans anyone under the age of 11 from using an e-bike on any roadway or sidewalk.
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It also bans e-bikes that produce more than 750 watts of power or have throttle assistance above 20 mph from roads and sidewalks.
Other restrictions for e-bikes include:
- Banning e-bikes that have had pedals removed or modifications to their propulsion systems
- All e-bikes must display the manufacturer’s class label, and altering the label is prohibited
- E-bikes must slow down to pedestrian speed in school zones or within 50 feet of any marked crosswalk or intersection. The rider also must yield to pedestrians
- Passengers are prohibited from riding on an e-bike unless it has a designated seat
The ordinance also bans motorized pedicabs within city limits unless they’re under strict terms in a franchise agreement between the city and the owner.
The ordinance also does not allow regular bicycles on sidewalks in business districts. Bikes are allowed on sidewalks in residential areas as long as the riders don’t ride next to another bike and yield to pedestrians.
Also, anyone under 16 must wear a properly fitting bike helmet, and parents cannot knowingly allow a child to ride without a helmet.
Anyone caught violating their rules faces fines and could have their vehicle impounded by police.
If city leaders decide to move forward after the first reading, there will be a second hearing and public reading on Aug. 15.
The meeting starts at 6 p.m. at Daytona Beach’s City Commission.
You can read the full proposal below.