E-bikes 101: A Safety Checklist for Parents

Electric-assisted bicycles (e-bikes) are swiftly increasing in popularity across the country for commuting, errands and recreation — particularly amongst local teens. Their capabilities and speed can make them more fun and efficient than traditional pedal bikes, and they allow riders to travel longer distances.

But e-bikes also carry enhanced risk for unfamiliar riders or individuals who use them irresponsibly. Kids need to learn to safely operate an e-bike before pedaling off on their own.  

Understanding the Risks 

A 2024 study in the American Journal of Public Health found that between 2019 and 2022, e-bike injury rates skyrocketed by 293%. Nearly half of riders did not wear helmets, and motor vehicle crashes and bike control issues were the top hazards associated with e-bike fatalities. 

• Speed and Power: Many e-bikes can reach speeds in excess of 20 mph, far faster than most children can safely handle. As a result, there is a higher risk of severe injury and death for riders of e-bikes than for regular bike users. The sudden acceleration can catch riders off guard, making it harder to stop quickly or react to obstacles.  
• Weight and Handling: E-bikes are often heavier than traditional bicycles. This affects maneuverability and stopping distance, which can be especially challenging for smaller and younger riders. 
• Distraction and Overconfidence: The novelty and excitement of e-biking can distract kids from paying attention to traffic, road hazards and pedestrians. 
• Traffic Exposure: E-bikes are frequently used on roads with cars, trucks and other vehicles. Young riders may not have the experience or judgment necessary to navigate complex traffic environments safely. 

It may seem that e-bikes are simply a step up from pedal-powered bikes — like graduating from using training wheels. However, they pose unique hazards for young riders. In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that children under the age of 12 years should not operate any product that travels faster than 10 mph.  

Review the Rules of the Road and Where They Can Legally Ride 

E-bikes aren’t toys — they’re motor-assisted vehicles that must follow the same laws as bicycles: 

• Ride with traffic on the right, and use bike lanes when available.
• Respect red lights and stop signs.
• Look both ways before entering the street.  
• Learn hand signals and use them before turning or stopping.
• Yield to pedestrians.
• Ride single-file in traffic and never weave between cars.

Virginia Beach Police can issue citations for observed violations to include reckless riding. Fines for offenses can range from $50 to $200 depending on the infraction.  

Currently, e-bikes are allowed on sidewalks and designated bicycle paths, but they are prohibited on the Boardwalk, the Boardwalk bike path and sidewalks in the Resort Area. They are prohibited on sidewalks and plazas in Town Center. 

Know What They’re Riding 

The Commonwealth of Virginia has established different classes of e-bikes and several laws are based on that classification. Manufacturers are required to label e-bikes indicating its classification, top assisted speed and motor wattage.  

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, motor assists up to 20 mph. Allowed on streets, bike lanes and shared paths. 
• Class 2: Throttle-assist available, motor assists up to 20 mph. Similar access as Class 1 but throttle use may be locally restricted. 
• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, motor assists up to 28 mph. Riders must be 14 or older, and helmets are mandatory for operators. 

Note: Class 3 e-bikes must be equipped with a speedometer. Modifying an e-bike to change its speed capability without updating the label is prohibited. All classes must have motors no greater than 750 watts and comply with safety standards. If a bike goes faster than these limits or has been modified, it may be considered a moped or motor vehicle, meaning it must follow stricter licensing and insurance rules. 

Make Sure Equipment is Safe and Well-Maintained 

• Ensure seat size and height fit riders, so that they’re able to reach the ground comfortably and brakes are easily accessible. 
• Routinely inspect the e-bike’s brakes, tires, battery and motor assist. 
• Remember that lithium-ion batteries can pose fire risks if damaged, charged improperly or misused. Find battery safety tips at VirginiaBeach.gov/e-bikes.
• Make sure you’re familiar with the extra maintenance required to keep the e-bike operating properly. This includes reading the user manual, learning about warnings and instructions and performing recommended safety checks 

Establish Safety Habits Early 

• Helmets are required by law for all riders 14 and younger for all classes of e-bikes and traditional pedal bikes. 
• Parents should first ensure teens are physically capable of handling the speed and control requirements of an e-bike. 
• They should already be well trained in use of a regular bicycle, know and understand traffic rules, bike handling and awareness of hazards before moving on to an e-bike. 
• Set and enforce speed limitations. Remind them that because the motor provides extra power, it’s easy to accelerate faster than anticipated. 
• Lead by example: Follow the rules yourself, wear a helmet, use hand signals and maintain safe speeds. 
• Use bike lanes when available. If there are no bike lanes, riders should stay on the right side of the road. 
• Wear a properly-fitted helmet that has been approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and closed-toe shoes on every ride. 
• Pay attention to your surroundings. Do not talk on a cell phone, text or wear ear buds/headphones while riding. 
• Discourage kids from taking passengers on their e-bike. 
• Do not operate the e-bike while consuming anything, such as alcohol or medications, that can impair your ability to safely operate an e-bike. 
• Alert others, such as pedestrians, that you are approaching. Electric motors are quiet, and they may not hear you.
• Set clear rules and boundaries for where they may ride, what speed to maintain and no stunts or reckless behavior. 
• Encourage teens to ride defensively, always anticipating the unexpected from drivers and pedestrians. 
• Practice braking, turning and handling in a safe, open area before allowing young riders to operate the e-bike near vehicle traffic. 

E-bikes are fun, earth-friendly and offer convenient mobility for young people, but Virginia Beach, like many communities around the country, is seeing serious crashes and citizen complaints tied to unsafe e-bike usage.

If you choose to allow your child to ride an e-bike, please ensure that they understand local laws and rules of the road, are properly trained to use them, and have been coached to avoid reckless behavior. 

For more information on local laws and e-bike policies, where to ride, battery safety and more, visit VirginiaBeach.gov/e-bikes. 

• E-bikes

Related Reading

• E-bikes 101: What Every Rider Needs to Know
• E-bikes on the Rise: Virginia Beach Steps up Safety Efforts