06/05/2026
This post is intended to help educate the public on transportation device safety. While we want citizens to enjoy their e-bikes and various transportation devices, it must done safely, legally, and with respect for others who are sharing our roadways, sidewalks, and multi-use paths.
One of the primary problems we are seeing is people riding electric dirt bikes and mini-bikes. These devices are only permitted on your own private property. They typically do not have pedals like an e-bike, and they can obtain speeds greater than 28 mph, which is the maximum speed for a Class 3 e-bike. The Police Division has been stopping riders of electric dirt bikes to help them understand that these devices cannot be driven on streets or sidewalks.
Another concern is that people are riding bicycles, including e-bikes (Class 1, 2, and 3) downtown on public sidewalks, which is prohibited in the 100, 200, and 300 blocks of Louisiana Avenue. This is a safety concern for pedestrians and patrons who may inadvertently open a door on a downtown business and strike a bicyclist. Additionally, if you are riding an e-bike on the sidewalk outside of the downtown area, you must pedal the bicycle.
Please help us keep our citizens safe so that everyone has an enjoyable summer. The best way to report a violation is by calling our non-emergency number (419) 872-8001 at the time of the incident so that an officer can respond to the area.
For more information on the different e-bike classes and rules/laws for electric scooters, electric unicycles and other transportation devices, visit bit.ly/SmartRiderSafeRider