Opinions & Regulations

There is a lot of controversy, debates, discussions, opinions, etc, on whether or not pedal-assisted bikes should be allowed on Crown Land mountain trails. I wonder how many people against the pedal-assisted bikes, have ever ridden one to some length to form an opinion on pedal assisted bikes? To have any constructive discussions on pedal-assisted bicycles, you must earn the right to discuss them. How can anyone form a concrete decision, based on hearsay and what you think is right?

We, three old seniors, have earned the right to make a concrete opinion on pedal-assisted bicycles. We all have ridden pedal bikes for 65 years, explored the mountains on our mountain bikes for well over 30 years, and ridden motorcycles for over 50 years. We know the difference! Pedal-assisted bikes do not “tear” up the trails more than any regular mountain bike.

A pedal assisted bicycle is engaging the motor while you are pedaling, you stop pedaling, and the system will stop too! Basically it multiplies your pedal power and will give a natural feel of cycling. You cannot go faster than the trail dictates... matter of fact the assisted bike may go slower down hills than conventional mountain bikes. The assisted bike has a speed limiter built into their system, they can only go 20 mph.

Some say that with an assisted bike, you will travel the trails more often and bring more people out into the mountains. I would fully agree with that; in the past, we were restricted by age or disabilities to come out and enjoy the mountains. Why should only the select few have access to these areas? We all pay taxes.

I found an interesting article on... CBC News article back in March 2018, controversy over the use of E-Mountain bikes on crown land...

..."Concerns over safety, trail damage and conflict with other trail users have some calling for electric mountain bikes to be banned from B.C's trails while others say they have a legitimate place in the "natural evolution" of the sport. (Rocky Mountain Bicycles)"...

In addition, below is  some information on clarification types of E-bikes and their limitations..., (California Assembly Bill 1096) , yes not Canada, but you can see what may be coming up our way soon....