the OPP
The Rainy River District Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police would like to remind the public of rules and restrictions regarding electronic bicycles commonly referred to as “e-bikes.”
E-bikes may resemble conventional bicycles, or resemble scooters and limited-speed motorcycles. They are capable of being propelled by muscular power but have one or more electric motors that enable the bike to become power assisted.
These bicycles are permitted on roads and highways but must follow the same rules of the road that currently pertain to bicycle with some exceptions.
Penalties for failing to comply with rules of the road or equipment standards are found under the Highway Traffic Act.
Here are some of the safety and equipment requirements pertaining to an e-bike:
•All operators and passengers must be at least 16 years of age;
•All operators and passengers must wear an approved bicycle or motorcycle helmet;
•Any modifications to an e-bike (for example, removal of pedals) will disqualify the e-bike from meeting the definition requirements under the HTA;
•E-bikes are allowed to travel anywhere bicycles are permitted to travel; some municipalities have bylaw restriction pertaining to specific locations of use so please check with your local municipality; and
•Passengers are only permitted on e-bikes designed to carry a passenger, please refer to the manufacturer’s information.
As for drinking and driving, an e-bike is considered a “motor vehicle” under the Criminal Code and anyone operating an e-bike while intoxicated could be charged for impaired driving.
If convicted, the offender would be subject to the penalties under Criminal Code and this could include a fine or jail time, and a driving prohibition.
For more information, please check out the Ministry of Transportation website: www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/dandv/vehicle/emerging/e-bike-faq.shtml#a23
