Battery-Powered Bikes on Bike Paths: Controversy Where It Doesn’t Belong -- Joe Sbardella

Battery-Powered Bikes on Bike Paths: Controversy Where It Doesn’t Belong -- Joe Sbardella

Since 1992, the East Bay Bike Path has provided a refuge from the hustle and bustle of life in Rhode Island. It is defined as a "linear park" and is funded by grants from the federal government and the State of Rhode Island.  

The path is 14.5 miles long and 10 feet wide. And, while there are rules to be followed it is mostly governed by the common sense and courtesy of its users. The list of by-laws isn’t long; ride Smart, ride right, walkers left, be visible, in-line skaters keep right, control your pet. The rest is up to us.

It is a refuge from stress. It is a place of peace and a quiet. A place for all of us to enjoy.

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But today the gift we were given back in 1992 is being challenged by, of all things, battery-powered bikes that are known to exceed 28 mph. Currently, there is a “law” in place that allows for only level 1 and 2 machines with electric motors of less than 750 watts and a speed limit of 15 mph. A question that comes immediately to mind is, “Who is enforcing it?” 

Proponents of battery-powered machines on our bike path will tell you that they are “quiet” and “earth-friendly." There are those who tell us they are no longer physically capable of riding a bicycle and that battery-powered machines are their only hope of getting “exercise." And finally, they are saving our planet by using their machines as a means of transportation. So now our beloved East Bay Bike Path is a point of controversy on social media and in the news.  

I was a competitive cyclist and triathlete for 32 years. During that time I logged thousands of miles on my bike on the back roads of New England and along our beloved bike path. Like many racing cyclists, I was capable of powering my bike at speeds in excess of 25 mph.   However, I considered it my obligation to slow down on the bike path out of respect and the safety of those enjoying it. Thirty-two years of experience taught me that.

Currently, there are no laws governing the use of battery-powered machines on our linear parks. There are no age limits, so you may see a 12-year-old motoring by you at 25 mph. You may see packs of battery-powered riders flying down your linear refuge while checking their mobile devices or texting.  

Prediction: the introduction of battery-powered machines on our linear parks will result in rules, regulations, taxation, accidents, injuries and even deaths. We will see an increase of law enforcement officers, traffic signage, and, of course, controversy. 

So we are left with questions: Are our lives better as a result of battery-powered machines invading our linear refuge? Are we willing to turn our linear parks into freeways?  

One thing we can be certain of; Something pure and beautiful will no longer be the same.

Joe Sbardella lives in Warren, Rhode Island