Revised Speed Limit Imposed on Citi Bike E-Bike Riders in NYC
Hitting the streets of NYC on a Citi Bike this summer just got a tad slower, and that's a move for safety's sake!
The attitude around town's favorite bike-share program has shifted gears thanks to Mayor Eric Adams' administration. As announced last week, all pedal-assist Citi Bike e-bikes must now adhere to a 15 mph speed limit, a significant drop from the previous 18 mph limit.
Patrick Knoth, Citi Bike's General Manager, confirmed the change last Friday, acknowledging the decision was a response to demands from City Hall. Interestingly, the city has denied a proposal from Citi Bike to install speedometers on e-bikes, leaving the enforcement of the 15 mph rule squarely in the hands of riders, who are now encouraged to self-regulate to avoid breaking the law.
The new speed limit is part of a broader plan by the mayor's administration to make city streets safer. According to a statement from Adams, he's heard countless times from New Yorkers about the risks posed by speeding e-bikes and e-scooters, particularly to pedestrians, and emphasized the city's duty to ensure everyone's safety.
Aside from slowing down the Citi Bikes, the plan also involves the exploration of additional physical safety measures in city parks such as Central Park and Prospect Park. With over 87.5 miles of new protected bike lanes built in the past three years and an additional 20 miles of bike lanes upgraded, Adams hopes to cater to the increasing demand for bike infrastructure across the city.
Despite initial resistance from Citi Bike, the company eventually agreed to the cap on pedal-assist speeds following intervention by Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro, who sent a letter citing the reduced speed limit as a necessary emergency measure. So, buckle up and enjoy the leisurely ride – all in the name of public safety!
The 15 mph speed limit imposed on pedal-assist Citi Bike e-bikes reflects a shift in the transportation industry, steering towards a safer public-transit system in NYC. This move comes amid concerns about the risks posed by high-speed e-bikes and e-scooters, particularly towards pedestrians, as per the city's safety-focused plans initiated by Mayor Eric Adams. The city's position on ensuring public safety extends to exploring additional safety measures within city parks and the expansion of bike infrastructure, such as protected bike lanes.
