Electric bicycles are a convenient transportation service now available in EGR and the greater Grand Rapids area. An electric bicycle, or e-bike, is a bicycle that has a small rechargeable electric motor that can give a boost to the pedaling rider or, on some models, can power the bike on its own.
EGR Public Safety considers e-bikes of all classes to be regulated with the same rules as pedal bikes. Following are some tips that will help keep you safe while enjoying your ride:
- Always ride WITH other traffic, not against it.
- Obey the rules of the road as any other vehicle operator, including all traffic signs, lane markings and signals, and use hand signals to indicate turns, slowing and stopping.
- Always wear a bicycle helmet and reflective clothing.
- Stay as far to the right as practical when riding in traffic lanes.
- Do not ride more than two abreast in a single lane.
- Avoid entering the roadway without first stopping to look for vehicles.
- Ride predictably and defensively, and NEVER ride while distracted or under the influence.
- Always yield to pedestrians.
- Ensure you have a white front headlight and a red rear reflector if riding after dark or in low light conditions.
Please note bikes of all kinds are not permitted on/in:
- Sidewalks in Gaslight Village
- John Collins Park
- Stone pathways, including at Waterfront Park
- Any playground equipment and park or school property furnishings, including but not limited to railings, stairs, curbs, benches, concrete walls, bike racks, planters and trash cans
- Tennis courts and the Canepa Tennis Center
- Athletic fields, including Mehney, Memorial and Remington fields
- Community track
You can learn more about e-bikes and their different classes on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.
Have questions? Call Public Safety at 616.949.7010 and one of our officers will be happy to discuss e-bike safety with you.