While government regulation often trails technological progress, the designs and technology of bicycles keep advancing with existing federal cycling laws seemingly stagnant. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), however, is considering updating these rules and is inviting public input.
The CPSC, a federal entity tasked with safeguarding the public from unnecessary injury or death risks associated with consumer products through education, regulatory activities, standardization, and enforcement, intends to assess how current guidelines are applicable to e-bikes.
“Over two decades ago, Congress granted CPSC the authority to establish regulations safeguarding consumers who use low-speed electric bicycles. The agency has not yet acted on this, and it’s high time we seriously consider whether we should now do so,” CPSC Commissioner Mary T. Boyle expressed, as reported by Bicycle Retailer.
This authority, which determines everything from a bicycle’s definition and speed to wheel, pedal, and reflector requirements, is inviting public feedback starting this Thursday via the Federal eRulemaking Portal. Over the next 60 days, the public is urged to assess if the adherence to these standards offers sufficient protection, particularly with regard to e-bikes.
This reevaluation of existing bicycle safety norms coincides with the public’s growing fondness for micro-mobility. As more states incentivize the sale of e-bikes, urban areas are hopeful that these vehicles will aid in decreasing traffic congestion, commuting durations, and carbon emissions.
However, the rise in e-bike usage comes with related hazards that have led to grave injuries and fatalities. In 2021, a 12-year-old girl succumbed to injuries sustained from an e-bike crash. A “CPSC In-depth investigations discovered four deaths resulting from E-bike related fires,” and the “NYFD revealed in hearing testimonies that in 2022 there were 191 e-mobility related fires, 140 injuries, and six deaths in the city as of 11/14/22, including 38 injuries in a high rise fire,” as per a presentation by PeopleforBikes to the CPSC.
“PeopleForBikes is eager to provide feedback and partake in any upcoming revisions to CPSC bicycle and e-bike regulations, including the introduction of relevant recognized testing standards,” commented Matt Moore, PeopleForBikes policy counsel. “Following our January recommendation to the CPSC that robust regulations were necessary to control the import and sale of untested, unsafe batteries for e-mobility devices, we are glad to witness the progression towards regulating the unfortunate influx of unsafe mobility products in the U.S. market.”
Besides addressing e-bike safety concerns, the CPSC is also requesting opinions on ” the coaster brake mandate on specific kids’ bikes,” as reported by Bicycle Retailer.
Post the 60-day period, PeopleForBikes expects the “CPSC will likely formulate new bicycle regulations,” according to Bicycle Retailer.
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