What are the new rules for e-bikes in Canby?

By Jules Rogers, Canby Chronicle

A new state law about e-bikes kicked in this summer, and takes effect next January.

HB 4007 defines what is a “powered micromobility device,” and combines the laws for kids under age 16, making clear they must wear helmets when riding bikes, e-bikes, e-scooters, and other small electric vehicles. It also raises the speed limit of e-scooters from 15 to 20 mph, and more tightly regulates batteries and their standards.

This bill lowers the legal age from 16 to 14 for riding an e-bike that provides power up to a speed of 20 mph; creates offense of improper sale or lease of e-motos or imposter e-bikes that can go over 28 mph punishable by a maximum fine of $250; and defines a powered micromobility device as one that includes a propulsion system that provides assistance up to a speed of 28 mph, while distinguishing them from e-bikes, e-scooters, mopeds, motorcycles, and wheelchairs.

The intention of the bill is to increase safety with clarified bright-line rules. The new state law took effect June 5, and has a required operative date of January 1, 2027. 

In Canby, increased use of electric-assisted bicycles, motor-assisted scooters or e-scooters, electric personal assistive mobility devices, and vehicles manufactured for off-road use has resulted in higher speeds, unsafe operation, and conflicts within shared public spaces, which have created unsafe conditions, according to city officials.

Canby City Council passed emergency Ordinance 1675 on August 5, which is intended to align local regulations with the Oregon Vehicle Code while establishing reasonable local regulations and enforcement discretion by promoting public safety and ensuring safe use of public streets, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, pathways, parks, and other public property.

The ordinance states that these types of electric vehicles may not be used on sidewalks or public property designated for pedestrians, and may not carry more passengers than the device’s intended use. These vehicles may not be operated on highways or adjacent to roadways unless in a bike lane. They should pass on the left, and provide audible warnings.

Stunts and reckless riding are now prohibited under the ordinance, as well as using phones or headphones while riding. Minors must also wear helmets. 

Canby Police Captain James Murphy said the Americans with Disabilities Act requires nondiscrimination for people with disabilities.

“If a person has a need for an electric mobility device such as an electric wheelchair, there's nothing that we are going to govern that is going to prevent them from using such things,” Murphy said at the meeting. 

He also said the goal of the mandate is education first.

“Our goal is not to go out and immediately start writing citations;  our goal is safety as far as the community is concerned. If there is a perpetual problem or a dangerous behavior that we think might need a citation to help fix that problem, then that’s an officer’s discretion, and they can do so,” Murphy said. “We are not trying to be punitive to our community; we’re trying to make our community safer.” 

Violations of the city ordinance may result in penalties of fines up to $1,000.

Stay safe by following the new e-bike rules, wearing your helmet, and riding under the speed limit.