Every time I step onto the streets of Ontario, I can't help but feel a sense of unease. It's not just me—it's everyone around who shares this anxiety. E-bikes zoom past us without any form of accountability. Why? Because there's no requirement for these vehicles to have plates, insurance, or registration. This lack of regulation is not only unfair but also dangerous. E-bikes are now filtering in with regular traffic, both on city streets and smaller provincial highways. As an avid motorcycle rider, I find this very dangerous.

Across the province, residents are witnessing the growth of e-bike usage. While these vehicles offer a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation, their unregulated status poses a serious risk to drivers, pedestrians, and even the riders themselves. Without proper oversight, there's no way to ensure accountability or encourage safe practices. Accidents happen, but when they do, e-bike riders rarely face the consequences that would deter future negligence.

Manufacturers have exploited current inadequate definitions of what is considered an E-Bike or electric assisted bicycle and have developed and marketed vehicles that were never designed to be operated as a bicycle by simply adding pedals that are not practical nor safe to actually use.  These are the vehicles that pose the greatest risk to public safety and require immediate regulation.

Many of these E-bikes can reach significant speeds, placing them closer to motorcycles in terms of their operational risks, yet they are not currently defined as motor vehicles under the Highway Traffic Act (HTS).  They are supposed to be capped at 32 km/hr but we all know that is rarely the reality.  In countries like Germany and Australia, e-bikes are already subject to regulations that include mandatory registration, insurance, and licence plates. Implementing similar standards in Ontario would create a safer environment for everyone.

A robust and updated framework that differentiates between power assisted bicycles and mopeds/scooters or motorcycle style electric vehicles is long overdue.   Electric powered vehicles capable of moving with speed of traffic NEED to be operated by people who have gone through the process of acquiring a license, proving they understand the rules of the road and how they legally are to integrate with traffic.  They also NEED to be insured in case of accident or mishap for their safety and the safety of those around them.

Premier of Ontario Doug Ford has proposed a new system of licensing for e-bikes (ERO 026-0422- https://ero.ontario.ca/notice/026-0422) but it has no implementation date. This cannot be allowed to sit and gather dust.  We need these regulations NOW.

Ontario has always been a leader in progressive initiatives. Let's ensure we remain at the forefront of transportation safety. By implementing regulations for e-bikes, we can protect our streets and communities. Please join this movement to regulate e-bikes in Ontario and make our province a safer place for all. Sign this petition to show your support for bringing accountability and regulation to e-bike usage in Ontario.