The City of Temecula has released more information and local rules regarding the use of electric bikes.
The following is a public letter from Aaron Adams, City Manager:
Have you noticed a surge in the popularity of e‑bikes in Temecula? Did your teenager or their friends receive an e-bike as a gift over the holidays? Among Mayor Stewart's initiatives for 2024 is to keep riders safe, along with those that share their path of travel.
In a press release published last week Mayor Stewart states, "E-bikes are emerging as both an efficient mode of transportation and a fun outdoor recreational opportunity that the City whole-heartedly supports, but we need to ensure riders are following the law for their own protection as well as those who travel along the same roads and trails."
Throughout 2024, we'll be taking a closer look at e-bike regulations and creating more public awareness on safety measures. Of particular concern to the City and community are young riders who do not have experience navigating through traffic and are more inclined to engage in risky biking behaviors such as ignoring stop signs/traffic signals, riding at excessive speeds in pedestrian areas, crisscrossing roads in front of oncoming traffic, and performing stunts/wheelies in City parks and streets, oblivious to the dangers they are posing to themselves and others.
The topic of e-bike safety will be placed on the next Traffic Safety Commission meeting agenda for general discussion and direction, and we invite you to join us! Members of the public are welcome to share their comments with the Commission about this important topic. The meeting will be held at City Hall on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at 6pm.