Gilbert, AZ Council Considers E-Bike Ordinance: Helmet Rules and Safety Concerns for Kids
Last Updated on September 1, 2025 by Kristina
Gilbert, Arizona, is facing a new challenge: e-bikes.
A sharp rise in use—especially among kids and teens—is pushing town leaders to consider a new ordinance. Police say education alone may not be enough.
Why the Change?
Assistant Police Chief Mike Angstead told the Town Council that e-bikes are booming nationwide. In Gilbert, that means more kids on the road and more accidents.
“Parents buy them because they’re cheap and look like bikes,” Angstead explained. “But many of these bikes are illegal to operate.”
He said the issue isn’t simple. It will take a mix of education, engineering, and enforcement to fix.
What the Numbers Show
Surveys from Gilbert residents highlight the concerns.
- 70% want more separation between bikes and cars on roads.
- 82% of people in a bike lane study wanted more green-painted lanes for visibility.
The town has invested over $215 million in bike safety projects. Wider lanes, safer trails, and better crossings are already in place. Still, crashes keep happening.
In 2023, there were 65 bike collisions. In 2024, the number dropped to 48—but more kids were involved. Five riders suffered serious injuries that year. Only 23% wore helmets.
The Education Push
Police launched the “Know Your Ride” campaign to help families understand e-bike rules.
Angstead explained the basics:
- Class 1: Pedal-assist, up to 20 mph.
- Class 2: Throttle, up to 20 mph without pedaling.
- Class 3: Pedal-assist, up to 28 mph. Must be 16 or older.
He also warned about electric motorcycles. Some go 70 mph or more. These require registration, insurance, and a license. But many imported models aren’t DOT-approved and can’t be registered at all.
What Other Cities Do
Nearby towns already have stricter laws:
- Scottsdale bans anyone under 16 from riding Class 3 e-bikes.
- Mesa, Chandler, and Tempe all require helmets for riders under 18 on e-bikes and motorized skateboards.
- Tempe goes further, requiring helmets for all minors, no matter the bike type.
Gilbert’s Options
Council heard four possible paths:
- Do nothing.
- Require helmets for all riders, any bike.
- Require helmets for riders under 18, any bike.
- Require helmets for riders under 18, e-bikes only.
Most members agreed safety is urgent. But they debated how to enforce rules fairly. Civil fines are the most likely penalty.
Councilwoman Yung Koprowski suggested adding speed enforcement and more school safety programs. Mayor Scott Anderson agreed.
Some members stressed the need for parenting first, not just government rules. But others pointed to real dangers—like kids riding wheelies at 40 mph in traffic.
What’s Next?
If Gilbert passes an ordinance, police say they’ll begin with education first, then move to fines.
With more kids on e-bikes than ever, the council sees action as urgent. As Vice Mayor Bobbi Buchli put it, they want to know how families themselves feel about these changes.
For now, the debate continues. But one thing is clear: Gilbert is moving closer to tougher e-bike safety rules.
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Kristina is not just an enthusiast but a true authority on electric bikes. Nestled in the coastal beauty of Virginia, Kristina has found the perfect backdrop for her passion for electric biking. As a dedicated wife and homeschooling mom, her life revolves around family, faith, and the thrill of adventure.
Originally hailing from Ohio, Kristina's journey with electric bikes began as a curiosity and quickly evolved into a deep expertise. Her blog is a testament to her love for electric biking, combining her fascination for eco-friendly transportation with her coastal lifestyle.
When she's not cruising the beach on her electric bike, you'll find Kristina indulging in her other loves: long walks along the shore, getting lost in a good book, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. With a heart as big as her love for animals, especially cats, Kristina brings a unique perspective to the electric bike world, grounded in her strong faith in God and her dedication to a sustainable lifestyle.
Through her blog, Kristina shares her extensive knowledge of electric bikes, offering valuable insights, tips, and recommendations to fellow enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the electric bike scene, Kristina's blog is your go-to source for all things electric biking, fueled by her passion, expertise, and the scenic beauty of coastal Virginia.
