4 - Laserfiche WebLink

Page 7 of 8 Staff recommendation Because of the difficulties of visually discerning e-bikes by class, the mobility benefits e-bikes provide to City residents, and public safety considerations, staff recommends the following subject to input from this Committee: 1) allow all classes of e-bikes on City bike paths, bike lanes, trails, and in public parks; and 2) limit the speed of e-bikes to 15 miles per hour, or slower if conditions require a slower speed for the safe operation of the e-bike. Pleasanton Municipal Code Updates The City’s municipal code currently prohibits the use of motorized bicycles in areas not designated for their use, or unless the Library and Recreation director permits their use. Motorized bicycles remain subject to laws provided in the California Vehicle Code. Currently, e-bikes is considered a “motorized bicycle” and prohibited from areas not designated for their use. If the City Council decides to allow e-bikes, then amendments would be proposed to the Pleasanton Municipal Code to: define e-bikes, differentiate e-bikes from motorized bicycles to allow e-bike use, set a speed limit for e-bikes, and require the safe operation of e-bikes depending on conditions. Educational programming If the Council adopts these changes, the Library and Recreation Department will explore options to provide education programming to the public about the speed limits for e-bikes, what an e- bike user could expect riding on trails shared by neighboring jurisdictions, and any other regulations the Council chooses to adopt. ACTION Provide recommendation to the City Council for the regulation for e-bikes on bike paths, bike lanes, trails and in parks. Submitted by: Wes Cheung Matt Nelson Deputy City Attorney Associate Traffic Engineer Exhibit A: Sample photos of Class 1 & 3 e-bike motor, Class 2 e-bike motor and throttle