Electric Cycles & Scooters

Electric Cycles & Scooters

DID YOU KNOW that different rules apply for different electric cycles or scooters? Peachland has limited dedicated cycling routes. Please read the following information to know the rules about cycling in Peachland. 

Electric Kick Scooters

In Peachland, electric scooters are not allowed on public roads, pedestrian paths or bike lanes. 

Peachland is not a part of the Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Project currently underway in different communities in the province. 

E-Bikes

E-bikes, or motor-assisted bicycles, must meet certain requirements to be legal for use on Peachland roads. 

You do not need a driver’s license or insurance to operate an e-bike. 

The minimum age is 14 for light e-bikes and 16 for standard e-bikes. Helmets must be worn.

E-bikes must have:

(Source E-bike requirements - Province of British Columbia)

  • Pedals (or hand cranks) that can propel the e-bike. The pedal or hand crank must be useable when the motor is engaged and propelling the e-bike
  • An electric motor 500w (standard e-bike) or 250w (light e-bike) maximum power output 
  • E-bikes cannot have a combustion engine
  • Safety features that stop the motor propelling the e-bike, e.g. when braking, not pedaling, or not applying the throttle
  • Motors and batteries that are securely fastened to the e-bike. Electrical terminals must be insulated and covered
  • Two or three wheels of at least 350mm in diameter

 

E-Dirt Bikes

E-dirt bikes are classified as off-road vehicles if:

  • they exceed 500w maximum power
  • they do not have functional pedals
  • they travel faster than 32 km/hr

E-dirt bikes are not allowed on Peachland roads, sidewalks or bike paths.

E-dirt bikes, can generally be operated off road legally, but are not allowed on Highway 97. A licence and registration of the vehicle would be required to operate an e-dirt bike on provincial or municipal roads. 

Enforcement

The Motor Vehicle Act outlines enforcement options for serious offences related to electric bicycle and scooter use. 

The West Kelowna RCMP Traffic Section, General Duty and Specialized Sections have been provided the proper education and are prepared to take action against dangerous operation and stunting behaviour. 

To report inappropriate use of electric bikes in Peachland, contact the West Kelowna RCMP Detachment non-emergency line at 250-768-2880. To report stunting or dangerous operation of an e-bike on roads or sidewalks, contact emergency at 9-1-1.

Safety Rules

  • WEAR A HELMET
    (You can be fined for not wearing one)
  • Stay to the right
  • Ride single file
  • Use hand signals
  • Use lights and reflectors at night
  • Do not ride while impaired or distracted
  • Watch for obstacles
  • Don’t forget your bike lock when planning to leave your bike in a public place

Bike and e-bike rules and safety - Province of British Columbia

Motorists - Please watch for cyclists in Peachland and SHARE THE ROAD