The Irvine City Council moved forward July 11 with plans to impose regulations on e-bikes, fearing that with their increasing popularity, e-bike riders have a higher risk of accidents and pose safety issues for residents.
During the meeting, Vice Mayor Tammy Kim said she recently encountered a group of teenagers on e-bikes riding through the outdoor Cypress Village Shopping Center at dangerous speeds.
“It was just really an awful experience. It’s what our residents are facing every day,” she said.
During the meeting, councilors unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance setting e-bike speed limits at 28 mph on city streets and 20 mph on bike paths and trails. The ordinance also bans e-bikes in open space environments, citing safety concerns and environmental hazards….