Kingston police remind e-bike riders of safety, legality rules as popularity grows

E-bikes are gaining traction in Kingston, Ontario, appealing to a wide range of users including seniors seeking activity and cyclists wanting to keep pace with family. Heidi Colburn, owner of Westside Cycle & Cafe, shared that her own e-bike allows her to join her competitive cycling husband and son on rides.

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I have a husband and son who ride and race competitively. So for me to be able to enjoy a ride with them I have an e-bike to keep up with them.

Colburn noted that the e-bikes sold at her shop require pedaling and are speed-limited to 32 km/h. However, she expressed concern over the increasing presence of throttle-powered e-bikes and scooters, particularly regarding rider safety. "The riders here that are on these motorized e-bikes and scooters, very few have helmets on, let alone nothing else," Colburn said. "So it’s concerning, safety-wise."

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The riders here that are on these motorized e-bikes and scooters, very few have helmets on, let alone nothing else. So it’s concerning, safety-wise.

Kingston Police have issued a reminder about legal e-bike operation on public roads. Media relations officer Anthony Colangeli stated that bikes must not exceed 32 km/h, require helmet use, and riders must be at least 16 years old. He warned that exceeding the speed limit could subject riders to motor vehicle regulations, including insurance and driver's license requirements, and necessitate a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

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The bike cannot go over 32 km/h. It must be operated on the road way the same as a bicycle; the rider has to wear a helmet and they must be 16 years or older.

Colburn anticipates no business impact from potential regulatory changes, as her shop sells certified e-bikes meeting current standards. Meanwhile, the City of Kingston is working on a micro-mobility strategy to establish clear rules for e-bikes, e-scooters, and similar devices, aiming to enhance safety for all users on city infrastructure.

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If you’re caught with something that’s going over 32 km/h, you are essentially treated as a motor vehicle so all those same rules apply to you. Insurance, driver’s licence. It must have a VIN.