The North Reading Police Department needs your partnership in keeping our community safe. With the surge of e-bikes around town, we are seeing increasing numbers of unsafe behaviors that put riders, pedestrians, and drivers at risk.
An e-bike is not a toy. Many reach speeds over 20 mph, and crashes can result in severe injuries. Parents, please take a moment to discuss safe riding with your kids and establish clear expectations.
Just a reminder for parents A Class 1 e-bike has a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, also called “pedal assist” or “e-assist.” The assistance for Class 1 e-bikes shuts off when the e-bike reaches 20 mph. Class 1 e-bikes have an electric motor of 750 watts or less.
A Class 2 e-bike has a throttle-actuated motor. The assistance for Class 2 e-bikes shuts off when the e-bike reaches 20 mph. Class 2 e-bikes have an electric motor of 750 watts or less.
When an e-bike motor exceeds the size and speed limits listed it is legally classified as a motorized bicycle (moped) or motor vehicle which triggers additional requirements to operate listed in our bulletin under, “Motorized Bicycles Considered Motor Vehicles).”
Parents should be aware that there are modification kits readily available on the market to be ordered online to increase an e-bikes power to achieve higher speeds. We have seen these bikes in North Reading.
How you can help:
🪖 Helmets First: Ensure your child always wears a properly fitted helmet.
🚦 Obey Traffic Laws: Remind them that e-bikes must follow all road signs, signals, and rules.
🛑 No Reckless Riding: Ban speeding, weaving, riding against traffic, wheelies, carrying passengers, and using phones/headphones.
📏 Right Fit & Limits: Ensure the bike matches your child’s age/experience and set clear boundaries on where they can ride.
Our goal isn’t to hand out citations; it’s to prevent injuries before they happen. Officers will be conducting enforcement for unsafe behavior, but safety starts at home.
Thank you for working with us to keep North Reading safe for everyone!
For additional information regarding e-bike injuries, please view the Boston25 news story here.