Attorney General issues consumer alert over illegal e-bikes and e-scooters; advocates push for stronger oversight
Some commuters and drivers told News 12 they have grown increasingly concerned about sharing the road with high-powered e-bikes.
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The New York Attorney General is warning consumers to be cautious when purchasing e-bikes and e-scooters, saying some businesses are illegally selling high-powered electric vehicles as e-bikes even though they exceed New York's legal speed and power limits.
The consumer alert comes after a 17-year-old boy died Wednesday while riding an illegal e-scooter, prompting renewed calls for stronger oversight of the vehicles being sold in New York.
Some commuters and drivers told News 12 they have grown increasingly concerned about sharing the road with high-powered e-bikes.
"I'm walking and suddenly... whoosh!" said Pamela Murray, commuter. "Every time I hear them now, my heart begins to beat faster."
Others said they have experienced similar encounters.
"Too many times I've come very close to having an e-bike run into me," said Jahiah Wilson, NYC driver.
Murray added that riders can often approach pedestrians without warning.
"These people, they creep up behind you," she said.
The Attorney General's Office says legal e-bikes in New York must have motors under 750 watts and provide assistance only up to 20 miles per hour. Officials say vehicles that exceed those limits may be classified as mopeds or motorcycles under state law.
"Companies should not be able to pretend that dangerous and illegal products are legal," said Charlie Baker, associate director of Digital Media & Marketing at Transportation Alternatives. "These companies have been preying on New Yorkers, and now a 17-year-old is dead."
Transportation Alternatives and other advocates are urging city leaders to strengthen regulations on the sale of high-powered electric vehicles.
"It's time for the City Council to amend and pass Councilmember Crystal Hudson's Ride Safe, Ride Right bill," Baker said.
The proposed Ride Safe, Ride Right bill would prohibit the sale of new e-bikes capable of exceeding 20 miles per hour. The legislation has been introduced but has not yet been passed by the New York City Council.
The Attorney General is encouraging consumers to verify that any e-bike or e-scooter they purchase complies with New York law before buying.
