The sale of electric-assist bicycles (E-Bikes) is growing across the country. Despite tremendous interest and growing market share, e-bikes remain a divisive topic amongst policy-makers, planners and cyclists of all ages and skill-levels. Despite increased accessibility to bicycles for geographically challenging communities, the mobility impaired and everyday bike commuters, ambiguity around the classification of e-bikes in New York State and subsequent safety concerns have significantly hindered their potential. This panel will explore the legal designation of e-bikes and potential uses, from personal accessibility to commercial and freight opportunities.
