Huntersville passes e-bike ordinance after concerns about unsafe riding behavior

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — New rules are now in effect for e-bikes in Huntersville after concerns about unsafe riding behavior on local roads.

Huntersville commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday night to create new safety requirements for young e-bike riders.

Bicycles capable of going 20 mph are allowed on roads, sidewalks and multi-use paths like greenways under this new ordinance. Town officials say the action they took Tuesday night is really just a first step in addressing young e-bike riders putting themselves and others at risk.

This 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.

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

“The piece of this that is important to us is the education piece,” said Huntersville Police Chief Brian Vaughn. “We really want to try to do that first, before we go to an enforcement posture.”

The ordinance limits e-bikes to 28 mph and requires anyone under 18 to wear a helmet.

“There are only three classifications of e-bikes, or electric assisted bicycles that are allowed to be operated here in Huntersville,” Town Attorney Emily Sloop said.

Vaughn says his officers are ready to enforce the $50 fine for violations.

“We will stop and cite if they are a juvenile,” he said. “We’re also holding parents responsible for the actions of the juveniles.”

Town officials say this is only the beginning of an effort to address a larger issue.

“The predominant problem that we have in Huntersville right now is really the e-motorcycles,” Vaughn said. “It’s illegal to operate them on a city street without them being registered or being a licensed driver.”

He says differentiating e-bikes from e-motorcycles can be challenging. So he’s hoping the public will help officers spot unsafe riders.

“I would just encourage people to continue to call 911 if they see an issue or have an issue on the greenway,” said Vaughn.

Citations not paid after 15 days can lead to a penalty the town recovers through civil action.

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