Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

Whispersail t1_jb2chj4 wrote

Bikes now, are motorized too. I have one, it's great.

42

omegacluster t1_jb4mj1r wrote

I am really ambivalent on the subject. I don't hate them outright, I love that a small electric motor and battery can help people cover longer distances on bike and choose the bike over the automobile. What I hate is these monstrous electric fat bikes that are closer to a motorcycle than a bicycle: they weigh a ton (figuratively of course) and always go way too fast on cycle paths. I think the lines should be redrawn regarding what vehicles are allowed on cycling paths.

16

ManiacalShen t1_jb4twso wrote

When people jump right in with a powerful and fast machine before ever learning normal trail etiquette, that's what we get. It is frustrating, because there's nothing stopping someone on a Class 3 e-bike from keeping to safe and polite speeds on shared paths. I've done it.

As long as roads are as terrible as they are, I have a hard time deciding who shouldn't be allowed on paths, though. It might just have to be a societal growing pain with a lot of public education, or we can at least disallow bikes that have those vestigial pedals and way-too-high top speeds.

7

uberfission t1_jb508va wrote

I get a sense of accomplishment when I pass people on e-bikes, knowing full well that I'm working my ass off and they're kind of just casually pedaling along.

3

beefJeRKy-LB t1_jb8wmcb wrote

There's also a huge problem with the less regulated throttle bikes used by delivery drivers. E bikes are very popular in Europe but it's largely the pedal assist variety used by normal people.

1