KAUKAUNA, Wis. (WFRV) – Temperatures are on the rise and so is e-bike usage in local communities, especially in Kaukauna.
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The rise isn’t just attributed to the naked eye, as at least one local bike shop has noticed it in their own retail numbers.
“About 35% of our bikes will be e-bikes,” Recyclist Bicycle Company Co-Owner Lora Glasel said.
However, that rise has also prompted public safety worries, as Kaukauna officials revised an ordinance to manage and quell concerns before they get out of hand, though it’s more difficult due to the recent prevalence.
“It’s hard to patrol it because they’re so new,” Mayor Tony Penterman said.
Police Chief Jamie Graff said the need for a revised ordinance wasn’t out of the blue, as the Kaukauna Police Department has seen its fair share of complaints.
“We’ve witnessed bad behavior and we’ve gotten complaints about it,” Chief Graff said.
There aren’t any state guidelines for regulation surrounding e-bikes at the current time, leading Kaukauna officials to get ahead of that curve with a centralized focus on safety.
“Our main focus and our key with this ordinance is responsible ridership and safety,” Mayor Penterman said.
The ordinance also outlines a clear difference between similar vehicles, specifically an e-bike versus an electric motorcycle.
“An electric bicycle must be under 750 watts,” Chief Graff said. “If it’s over 750 watts, it’s considered an electric motorcycle.”
Through the ordinance’s broad careless option rule, officers can stop dangerous riding, especially sidewalk speeding and weaving through traffic; however, Chief Graff said there’s a greater purpose than just stopping dangerous riding—it’s about education.
“We want to educate people on the safe way to ride these bikes,” Chief Graff said. “By getting out ahead of it, we can educate our community and keep some standards to keep everyone safe.”
Officials also say the majority of the focus is on young riders who haven’t learned the rules of the road, especially as they apply to bikes of all kinds.
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There are fines outlined for people who violate the rules, which vary by age group:
- Under 16:
- First offense—$62
- Second and subsequent offense(s)—$124
- Over 16
- First offense—$124
- Second and subsequent offense(s)—$248
Click here for the full ordinance via a Common Council meeting note.
