Cedarburg officials are trying to bring a little order to the city’s fast-growing mix of e-bikes, e-scooters and souped-up electric rides. The Common Council discussed a proposed ordinance Monday after residents raised concerns about speeding, sidewalk riding and conflicts on shared paths, but the measure was sent back for revisions rather than approved.
The council’s discussion comes as the city attempts to draw clearer lines between ordinary bicycles, regulated e-bikes and what police describe as “e-motos” racing through places they are not allowed. Greater Milwaukee Today reported that City Administrator Mikko Hilvo said Cedarburg had received calls and emails about safety concerns.
What The Draft Would Change
The proposal would create a new section of Cedarburg’s municipal code covering operation, parking, equipment and access rules. Under the city’s draft ordinance summary, riders would need working brakes, proper nighttime lighting and compliance with state traffic laws, while intoxicated riding, speed modifications and mislabeling an e-bike’s class would be prohibited.
Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes, along with e-scooters, could use shared-use paths at no more than 15 mph. Class 3 e-bikes, which can provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph, would be allowed on shared paths only where posted, while e-bikes and scooters generally could use city streets unless a sign says otherwise.
The draft would also restrict sidewalk riding in business districts, with exceptions for recreational trails and crosswalk access. Devices could not block building entrances, curb ramps or ADA routes, and they would have to be parked upright while preserving at least five feet of clear sidewalk width, according to the News Graphic report.
Residents Push Back On A One-Size-Fits-All Rule
The proposal drew criticism from residents who said it could burden responsible riders without stopping the people causing the most trouble. Terry King argued that restrictions on Class 3 e-bikes were unnecessary and said the ordinance would punish many riders for the behavior of a smaller group, while Charlie Kinas said it would not stop people already ignoring basic traffic rules downtown.
Council members also floated possible changes before the next discussion, including allowing children age 10 and younger to ride on sidewalks and prohibiting noise-canceling earbuds. Amanda Didier suggested the city pair any new rules with safety education for children, a point that could prove less controversial than deciding which electric contraption belongs where.
How Wisconsin Rules Fit In
Wisconsin classifies e-bikes as Class 1 pedal-assist models capped at 20 mph, Class 2 throttle-assisted models capped at 20 mph and Class 3 pedal-assist models capped at 28 mph. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has urged riders and motorists to share responsibility and check local rules before using sidewalks, bike paths or trails.
The city’s proposal would add local restrictions around downtown sidewalks, shared paths, parking and device safety while preserving accommodations for people using electric bicycles as mobility devices under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Police could also impound devices when necessary for public safety, according to the city’s announcement.
No ordinance was adopted Monday. The Common Council is expected to revise the language and consider the proposal again, leaving Cedarburg riders with the current rules for now—and city officials with another round of deciding how much electricity is too much for a bicycle.
