Dr. Andrew Hashikawa, clinical professor of pediatric emergency medicine and U-M Concussion Center Associate Director, Engagement & Education recently cited his e-bike concerns while speaking with WILX Lansing. “I think because e-bikes and e-scooters are bigger, faster, we know that the rate of hospitalization is almost twice that of regular bikes,” said Andy Hashikawa, clinical professor of pediatric emergency medicine. “We’re sometimes seeing significant internal injuries. Because of the speed, lacerations, fractures, bruises, head injuries, we’re seeing all of that, and that number is really increasing as the number of e-bikes and e-scooter use has increased.”

Health experts warn that riders and parents are underestimating the risks.  A new University of Michigan Health C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital poll found that over 60% of parents rated e-bikes as safer than driving a car and skateboarding and 67% did not feel informed regarding the different types of e-bikes.  

The United States e-bikes are grouped into a three-class system.

The United States e-bikes are grouped into a three-class system. 

Class 1 e-bikes:

• Are allowed on bike paths/lanes and roadways – where bikes are permitted
• Provide motor assistance only while the rider is pedaling
• Top speed 20 miles per hour

Class 2 e-bikes:

• Are allowed on bike paths/lanes and roadways – where bikes are permitted
• Are pedal-assist and independent hand throttle
• Top speed 20 miles per hour

Class 3 e-bikes:

• Are allowed on streets and road-adjacent bike lanes
• Are pedal-assist 
• Top speed 28 miles per hour

These differences are meaningful because the power mechanism and the maximum assisted speed affect the level of skill and judgement needed to ride safely. Some states or communities have minimum age requirements for different classes of e-bikes; however, meeting the age requirement does not necessarily mean a child is ready to ride an e-bike safely. Parents should consider their child’s experience, judgement, maturity, and ability to follow traffic and safety rules when deciding whether a particular e-bike is appropriate.