E-bikes and How Officers Have Become Familiar
By Isabella Schumann, BEAT reporter
BRUNSWICK, OH- With the growth of technology, E-bikes have become popular. Specifically, in Brunswick, they have been spotted all around the city. Chris J. Scafidi, a sergeant at Brunswick Police Station, believes that E-bikes are a great way to get around Brunswick or anywhere, but should be used carefully and responsibly.
E-bikes have three different classes: Class One and Two have fully operated pedals, have less than 750 watts, assist only when pedaling, and provide no speed higher than 20 mph. Class Three has fully operated pedals, have less than 750 watts, provide assistance when pedaling, no motor assistance at 28 mph or greater, must have a speedometer, and every rider must wear a helmet when riding.
Scafidi shared thoughts on how E-bike riders should prepare themselves for their journey. “Wear proper safety equipment, including reflective gear and lights, especially at night,” he stated. “Ride in well-lit areas and follow all traffic laws.”
Things that people are not allowed to do are using the motor while on the sidewalk. They are only allowed to use the motor when riding on a street. Cars and E-bikes have the same laws when on the street, such as obey every stop sign and stoplight, stop at stoplights and stop signs, display proper lane usage, and follow the same speed limit, etc.
Class One and Two E-bikes can typically reach the highest speed limit of 20 mph, while Class 3 can reach up to 28mph. Scafidi explained that he occasionally gets calls for E-bikes since “people get into accidents, reckless operations. We also have to proactively patrol and conduct stops on E-bikes that violate traffic laws.”
Scafidi believes that E-bikes are a good way of transportation. People are learning traffic laws sooner, and if there are fewer cars on the road means less noise and air pollution, which can better the community. Scafidi believes that E-bikes are also a good way for transportation. “E-bikes are easy to hop on and get to some place close by, like work or school, quickly and efficiently,” he shared.
All classes of E-bikes are allowed to be on the road. Scafidi said that if an E-bike breaks down on the road, approach the situation just like a person with a car would do: get in the farthest right lane on the road, turn on your hazards, make sure you are visible to drivers, and wait until someone comes to help.
E-bikes don't really have an exact time when, after charging, they will power down and cease to operate. It all depends on the brand of bike and the manufacturer. Scafidi said the best thing that parents can do with their kids driving around is make sure that they know exactly what they are buying/bringing their kids. E-bikes and E-motorcycles are very similar, but with an E-motorcycle you need a proper license and must be 14 years old to drive it.
As E-bikes continue to gain popularity throughout Brunswick, their impact on local transportation remains clear. By staying informed on class distinctions, following traffic regulations, and prioritizing safety gear, riders can take advantage of this efficient option while keeping the streets safe for everyone in the community.
Isabella Schumann, Brunswick High School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program, celebrating its 25th year, is sponsored by Donut Land, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, MODA Gifts, Scripps Howard Foundation and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/community/new-beat-site to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com/?folder=ALL to view videos produced by the students.
PHOTOS: Sgt. Scafidi talks with an E-Bike rider; graphics of Class One, Two and Three Overviews.