Central Oregon agencies issue warning over e-bike and motorcycle safety risks
Bend, Ore. (KTVZ) --- Eight Central Oregon public service and health agencies issued a joint statement today urging parents, riders and drivers to take proactive safety measures amid the rising popularity of e-bikes and electric rideables.
The organizations emphasized that preventing serious injuries requires a collective effort across the community, citing safety risks associated with young or inexperienced riders traveling at high speeds alongside traffic.
Electric rideables—including e-bikes, e-motorcycles and electric dirt bikes—have become a common form of transportation for young people seeking local independence. However, officials noted that these vehicles carry significant risks, especially when riders travel at high speeds on electric motorcycles that are not legally permitted on public streets.
The joint statement was issued by Bend Fire & Rescue, Bend Park & Recreation District, Bend Police Department, Bend-La Pine Schools, Commute Options, Deschutes County Health Services, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office and St. Charles Health System. “Keeping kids safe on our roads takes all of us,” the agencies said in the statement.
Parents and caregivers are urged to verify what equipment their children are using, as some higher-speed electric rideables are classified as motorcycles rather than e-bikes. In the joint statement, the eight agencies emphasized the importance of understanding the vehicle's capabilities. “Know what your child is riding. Not everything marketed as an e-bike is legally an e-bike, and some electric motorcycles can reach speeds of more than 50 mph,” the agencies said. They added, “Make sure your child is legally allowed to ride, understands the rules of the road and wears a helmet every time.”
Oregon law sets specific restrictions for e-bike usage on public property. Under state law, riders must be at least 16 years old to operate an e-bike, and riding e-bikes on sidewalks is prohibited. Furthermore, many high-speed electric vehicles are classified legally as electric motorcycles or dirt bikes rather than e-bikes, meaning they cannot legally be operated on public roads or trails. “Under current Oregon law, riders must be at least 16 years old to operate an e-bike. E-bikes cannot be ridden on sidewalks and riders must follow traffic laws,” the statement noted.
The joint release also outlined rules for riders to follow while navigating streets. Riders are instructed to slow down, stay alert, ride predictably, follow traffic laws, stop at stop signs and red lights and travel on the correct side of the road. Advice includes keeping phones away, avoiding riding while impaired and wearing proper bike lights and reflective clothing when riding at night to remain visible to motorists. “Wear a helmet. Slow down. Stay alert and ride predictably. Follow traffic laws, stop at stop signs and red lights and ride on the correct side of the road,” the organizations stated. They also advised riders to “put phones away and never ride while impaired.”
Drivers are advised to exercise heightened caution around bicycles and e-bikes. The agencies urged motorists to slow down, put away distractions, grant space to riders and look carefully before turning or entering intersections. “Watch for bikes and e-bikes. Slow down, put distractions away, give riders space and take an extra look before turning or entering an intersection,” the statement cautioned drivers.
The agencies stressed that public awareness and community cooperation are essential to preventing serious injuries on local roads. “By slowing down, paying attention, talking to our kids and looking out for one another, we can help keep our roads and neighborhoods safe for everyone,” the organizations said.
