Huntersville considers helmet requirement, fines for young e-bike riders

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — New rules could be coming for e-bikes in Huntersville after concerns about unsafe riding behavior on local roads.

Huntersville commissioners are expected to vote Tuesday night on whether to create new safety requirements for young e-bike riders. The proposal comes as nearby communities have adopted similar regulations. Cornelius passed an e-bike ordinance last year, Davidson followed in February, and Charlotte is considering similar rules.

The discussion follows reports and videos showing riders performing tricks near traffic. In one video captured on McCord Road in Huntersville, young riders can be seen doing wheelies and riding without their hands while traveling near oncoming vehicles.

Parent Madison Pedrick said she has seen unsafe riding firsthand.

“Zipping through traffic with the regular cars, eating on them, not paying attention,” Pedrick said.

Huntersville commissioners will consider passing a new Electric-Assisted Bicycle Ordinance.

“We have seen a huge increase with the children getting out, popping wheelies in front of cars, and not being aware of their space,” Commissioner Scott Coronet said.

Town leaders worked with the Huntersville Police Department and Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation to draft the proposed ordinance.

If approved, the rules would require all riders younger than 18 to wear a helmet and would limit e-bikes to speeds below 28 mph.

“As these continue to grow, and they are expected to have more e-bikes as the years go on, we’re going to continue to reevaluate and adjust as we can,” Coronet said.

Pedrick said the proposal is a positive first step.

“For everyone’s safety, their safety, our safety, pedestrian safety, less traffic issues, congestion,” she said.

Under the proposed ordinance, a minor caught riding without a helmet would face a $50 fine. Coronet said it would be the first ordinance of its kind in Huntersville, and the town could revisit the rules in the future as e-bike use continues to grow.

More information about the proposal is available in the town’s meeting agenda: Huntersville Board of Commissioners agenda.

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