On Sat, 15 Jul 2017 20:21:44 -0700 (PDT), Sir Ridesalot
wrote:

I wonder if eventually electric bikes and their rider will have to licensed?
Cheers

California just passed a law concerning eBikes:
https://www.electricbike.com/california-ebike-laws/
"If you are using PAS (applying power that is actuated
by pedaling), you can legally have power up to 28-MPH
(45-km/h). But, if you like a hand-throttle, you can
only legally apply power on a street ebike up to
20-MPH (32-km/h)"

I can see various reasons for licensing eBikes, none of which are
particularly compelling at this time. Mandatory registration will
probably come first as the most important reason for licensing is
generating revenue for the city, county, or state. Licensing to
insure competence and apply some safety requirements will appear only
after there are some regrettable incidents to high profile dignitaries
or their relatives. At best, it might be required to view an online
course in eBike safety, followed by a short quiz, before you can print
your eBike license. If there are going to be any ordinances, my
guess(tm) is that it will somewhat follow the current ordinances
against using Segways and Hoverboards on the sidewalks.

Whether any of this will have an effect on trail and MUP safety is
debatable. I think not because there will probably not be any
additional funding for enforcement. Somehow, I don't see the police
or volunteers monitoring trails and MUP's for violations.

--
Jeff Liebermann
150 Felker St #D http://www.LearnByDestroying.com
Santa Cruz CA 95060 http://802.11junk.com
Skype: JeffLiebermann AE6KS 831-336-2558