DENNIS – The Dennis Police Department is launching a public education campaign aimed at improving electric bicycle safety following an increase in reports of unsafe E-bike operation, particularly involving juveniles.
Police say the campaign will focus on educating young riders, parents and the general public about Massachusetts laws governing electric bicycles, including speed limits, helmet requirements and rules of the road.
In a social media announcement, the department said officers have continued to observe an increase in unsafe E-bike operation and want to make sure riders understand both the capabilities and legal limitations of the increasingly popular bicycles.
Over the coming weeks, police plan to share information explaining the differences between traditional E-bikes, electric dirt bikes and motorized bicycles, commonly referred to as mopeds. The distinctions are important because different types of motorized vehicles are subject to different operating requirements under Massachusetts law.
According to police, a legal E-bike is a bicycle or tricycle equipped with fully operational pedals and an electric motor rated at 750 watts or less.
Massachusetts recognizes two classifications of electric bicycles.
Class 1 E-bikes provide electric assistance only while the rider is pedaling, with motor assistance ending at 20 mph.
Class 2 E-bikes can provide motor assistance whether or not the rider is pedaling, but that assistance must also stop at 20 mph.
Neither classification requires a driver’s license or vehicle registration.
Police are reminding riders that E-bikes must follow the same basic traffic laws that apply to traditional bicycles and other vehicles.
That includes stopping at stop signs, traveling on the correct side of the road, obeying one-way street restrictions and yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks.
E-bike riders are also prohibited from operating on sidewalks or highways where signs specifically restrict their use.
Helmet safety is another major focus of the campaign. Massachusetts law requires E-bike riders and passengers who are 16 years old or younger to wear protective helmets.
The department noted that wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries in a crash.
Police are also emphasizing the importance of visibility, particularly when riding after dark.
State regulations require bicycles operated at night to have a white front light visible from at least 500 feet, along with a rear red light and reflector. Additional side reflectors or reflective material are also required to help motorists see riders.
The department is also reminding residents that modifying an E-bike to increase its motor-assisted speed or alter how the motor engages is prohibited.
Bicycle racing on public roads is not permitted without police approval, and riders must keep at least one hand on the handlebars while operating their bicycles.
The educational effort is particularly directed at parents, who police say play an important role in ensuring their children are using appropriate bicycles and operating them responsibly.
As electric bicycles become more common on Cape Cod roads, police are encouraging families to understand the regulations before allowing children to ride.
The Dennis Police Department says additional safety information and explanations of the different types of electric-powered bicycles will be shared through its social media channels in the coming weeks.
The department’s stated goal is to increase awareness, encourage responsible riding and reduce the potential for crashes and injuries involving E-bikes.
