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RBC E-Bike Policy.

As e-bikes become more popular with recreational cyclists, the Board of Directors has set a policy for their use on our group rides. As we gain experience with e-bikes on group rides, the policy will adapt — we welcome suggestions from members.

The three classes of e-bike

Allowed on group rides

Class 1

Pedal-assisted. The motor helps only while you pedal, and stops helping at 20 mph.

Not allowed

Class 2

Throttle-assisted. The motor can move the bike whether you pedal or not, up to 20 mph.

Allowed on group rides

Class 3

Pedal-assisted. The motor helps only while you pedal, and stops helping at 28 mph.

The policy

These apply to all RBC-sponsored rides and events.

  • E-bikes on group rides must be pedal-assisted: Class 1 or Class 3.
  • Class 2 e-bikes may not take part in group rides.
  • E-bike riders follow all the same rules of the road, safety protocols and riding etiquette as everyone else.
  • Tell the ride leader at the start of each ride that you’re on an e-bike. Ride leaders may remind e-bike riders of the rules, but each e-bike rider — not the ride leader — is responsible for riding a permitted class of e-bike.
  • As on every group ride, ride leaders have the authority and responsibility to change how any e-bike rider is riding if they feel that rider is compromising the safety of others or breaking an RBC policy or convention.
  • E-bike riders may ride anywhere in the group on any level of ride and rotate through the pace line with everyone else. When at the front of a pace line, don’t speed up the group.
  • Connecticut law currently doesn’t allow e-bikes on bike and rail trails; New York law does, but each New York rail trail has its own rules. Ride leaders should know the rules and tell riders when posting the ride.

E-bike riding etiquette

  • Avoid aggressively passing other riders on climbs or into the wind.
  • Ride to support and keep the pace of the other riders.
  • Remember heavier e-bikes take longer to stop, and ride accordingly.
  • Make sure your battery will last the whole ride without help from other riders.