Dr. Naomi Lin
With the surge in e-bike popularity among Greater Victoria residents, concerns over high speeds and trail safety have grown. According to the Capital Regional District (CRD), the combined usage of the Galloping Goose, Lochside, and E&N multi-use regional trails reached a staggering 3.9 million visits in 2023. As these trails serve as recreational spaces and transportation corridors, the potential for conflicts among different users has become a pressing issue.
CRD spokesperson, Andy Orr, acknowledges that while most trail users adhere to basic etiquette, there are some who do not, creating an intimidating environment for others. Orr emphasizes the importance of trail etiquette, including keeping to the right, controlling speed (especially for e-bikes), yielding to pedestrians and other users, and signaling when passing. Respecting other trail users and fostering kindness are at the core of promoting safe trail usage, Orr explains.
To address these concerns, the CRD launches an annual campaign called Cruise with Courtesy. Running from July to September, the campaign aims to remind all trail users to be courteous to others. It involves advertising, social media outreach, and the deployment of CRD park rangers, naturalists, and bylaw officers on some of the busiest trail sections this summer to provide information and education on proper trail etiquette.
Looking ahead, the management plan for the regional trails will be revisited in the next few years, and speed limits are likely to become a topic of discussion. While there are currently no posted speed limits on the trails, e-bikes must adhere to the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act definition of a “motor-assisted cycle.” This means that e-bikes should have fully operable pedals, an electric motor with a maximum output, and must not exceed a power output of 500 watts.
It is important to note that e-bikes have a legal maximum speed of 32 kilometers per hour, beyond which the motor won’t assist the rider. Any alterations to the bike’s speed are intentionally made difficult, and reputable brands have measures in place to prevent tampering. However, some online platforms claim to offer methods to override the speed limitations of e-bikes, highlighting the importance of purchasing from trusted sources.
As e-bike ridership continues to rise, it is crucial for cyclists to navigate the trails responsibly and with the utmost consideration for others. Adhering to trail etiquette, obeying speed limits, and purchasing e-bikes from reputable sellers are all essential steps in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all trail users.
The surge of e-bike popularity among Greater Victoria residents reflects a larger trend in the global electric bike industry. E-bikes have seen significant growth in recent years, with market forecasts projecting continued expansion. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global e-bike market size is expected to reach $38.6 billion by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9%.
One of the main drivers of this growth is the increasing focus on sustainability and environmental consciousness. Governments and individuals alike are looking for alternatives to traditional transportation methods that emit greenhouse gases. E-bikes provide a greener and more sustainable option for short-distance commutes and recreational activities.
However, as e-bike usage increases, so do concerns about safety and trail etiquette. Issues related to high speeds and potential conflicts among different trail users have become pressing. This is particularly evident in multi-use regional trails like the Galloping Goose, Lochside, and E&N trails in Greater Victoria, which experienced a record-breaking 3.9 million visits in 2023.
To address these concerns, the Capital Regional District (CRD) has launched the annual “Cruise with Courtesy” campaign. The campaign aims to remind all trail users, including e-bike riders, to follow proper trail etiquette and be considerate of others. The CRD employs various strategies to promote this message, including advertising, social media outreach, and the deployment of park rangers, naturalists, and bylaw officers to educate trail users on the importance of trail etiquette.
Looking ahead, the management plan for regional trails will be revisited in the next few years. One of the key topics of discussion is likely to be speed limits. Currently, there are no posted speed limits on the trails, but this may change to address concerns about high-speed e-bikes. E-bikes must adhere to the B.C. Motor Vehicle Act definition of a “motor-assisted cycle,” which includes specific requirements such as maximum power output and speed limitations.
It is crucial for e-bike riders to be aware of the legal limitations and restrictions surrounding their bikes. Responsible e-bike usage involves obeying speed limits, yielding to pedestrians and other trail users, and purchasing e-bikes from reputable sellers. Online platforms that claim to offer methods to override speed limitations should be approached cautiously, as modifications to e-bikes can compromise safety and legal compliance.
As the e-bike industry continues to grow, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all trail users becomes paramount. By promoting proper trail etiquette and adherence to speed limits, local authorities and individuals can ensure that e-bike ridership remains a sustainable and positive aspect of the greater transportation landscape.
