Ebikes have been in the news lately for reasons both good and bad and Patrick has been fielding gripes and advice from friends on the topic of Class 2 ebikes. Patrick and Lori discuss the three classes and why some ebikes include a throttle and whether or not that’s a good idea.
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I used to be judgmental about what bikes others were riding. I’m still judgmental, but I used to be too. I jest, because now I mostly don’t give AF.
On the contrary, I find poor behavior to be vastly more of an issue. I do not care about being passed, BUT I am not pulling over and stopping to allow some dingus to get by. The ONLY time I believe this to be acceptable (and barely) is during a race. Otherwise, no one’s ride is more important than anyone else’s. As such, the worst offenders are not the e-bikers, but the XC kooks who are on a park trail during peak hours trying to bag PRs amidst families trying to enjoy leisurely rides. These are 95% of the time on the easiest most mellow trails too. I have had countless interactions with these riders where expletives are exchanged and some I thought might come to fisticuffs.
On that note, I’ve always found that the best riders never need to make a big deal about getting around anyone. They do so when it’s safe without any fanfare.
Lastly regarding e-bikes and access concerns our regional parks and the trail advocacy group SORBA all agreed to Cl 1 e-bikes only. No one-wheelers, no throttles, nada. The police have nabbed stupid rich kids blazing Surrons helmet-less a bunch of times around here.