Amazon removes high-speed e-bikes following fatal collisions
Los Angeles Times • • business
Key Points:
- Amazon has agreed to stop selling certain e-bikes in California that exceed state speed limits following multiple fatal collisions involving high-speed electric bikes.
- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a consumer alert emphasizing that pedal-assisted e-bikes cannot exceed 28 mph and throttle-assisted e-bikes are limited to 20 mph, highlighting a rise in deaths related to electric bike crashes.
- Despite previous sales of e-bikes capable of speeds over 40 mph, Amazon removed these listings after being contacted by media and is investigating compliance for similar products.
- Legal actions have been taken against parents allowing minors to ride electric motorcycles illegally, including an involuntary manslaughter charge linked to a fatal crash involving a 14-year-old rider.
- The Los Angeles City Council is also considering restrictions on e-bikes on most city recreational trails, permitting their use only on designated bikeways due to safety concerns for pedestrians and hikers.