EVERETT — There has been an increased use of pedal-free electric bikes — which are considered motorcycles under Washington State law — in city limits, Stanwood police said in a press release.
They may look like legal electric-assisted bicycles, but pedal-free e-bikes that have pegs instead of pedals must be licensed, registered and operated by someone with a valid motorcycle endorsement. Without meeting these requirements, they cannot legally be operated on roadways, sidewalks or bike paths.
“These devices can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to ride safely, follow the rules, and know the difference between a legal e-bike and a motorized vehicle,” Stanwood Police Chief Jason Toner said in the release.
Violations may result in citations, fines or eventual impoundment of the device.
Stanwood police also encourage the public to follow safety guidelines when operating legal e-bikes and e-scooters. For example, children under 18 are required to wear helmets, limit use to one rider per device, maintain speeds under 16 miles per hour, use reflectors or lights at night and yield to pedestrians on sidewalks.
Taylor Scott Richmond: 425-339-3046; taylor.richmond@heraldnet.com; X: @BTayOkay
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