By Kimberley RCMP

In British Columbia, e-bikes must adhere to specific regulations to ensure safety and legality on public roads.

Here are the key points to consider:

• Pedals or Hand Cranks: E-bikes must have pedals or hand cranks that can propel the bike when the motor is engaged.
• Electric Motor: The motor must have a maximum power output that is compliant with the e-bike class.
• Batteries and Motors: Both the batteries and motors must be securely fastened to the e-bike and insulated. Have a Maximum Motor Power of 500W.
• Speed Limits: E-bikes must not be capable of propelling the cycle over 25 km/h on public roads when they are operating on a clean, paved and level surface.

Most E-bikes propel at 30 km/h and Kimberley RCMP is okay with allowing that speed, however, if the speeds do exceed 30 km/h, the E-Bike is considered a motorized vehicle and requires licencing and registration with ICBC to be allowed on public roads.

If the E-bike is in contravention of the previous rules, the RCMP can seize the bike for the safety of the public. While we understand these vehicles are fun to ride, rules are created for the safety of all the users of the road and must be adhered to.

• Riders under 18 must wear helmets. The minimum age to ride higher-powered e-bikes is generally 16 years. Ease of high speeds and lack of experience can lead to horrific accidents.
• Cyclists must follow the same road rules as drivers, including obeying traffic signs, lights, and yielding to pedestrians.

USE OF BIKES IN THE PLATZL, ON SIDEWALKS AND FOOTPATHS

City of Kimberley Streets and Traffic Bylaw – Part III Regulation of Cycles

501.1 Unless the context otherwise requires, a person operating a cycle on a street has all the rights and is subject to all the duties that any vehicle operator has under this bylaw.

501.2 A person operating a cycle on any sidewalk, footpath, or walkway in the City, or on the central fire lane portion of the Platzl, shall operate the cycle only in such a way that it will not interfere with a pedestrian lawfully on or using any said sidewalk, footpath or walkway or the central fire lane portion of the Platzl. (Bylaw No. 2462, 2013 Amnd. 2)

501.3 A cycle or like apparatus operated in contravention of Section 501 may be confiscated and held as evidence pending possible prosecution by the city under this bylaw.

For more detailed information on e-bike regulations and safety, cyclists can refer to the Government of British Columbia’s E-bike rules of the road page or under the Motor Assisted Cycle (E-bike) Regulation.

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