MUSKEGO — The Muskego Common Council will consider drafting an ordinance on e-bikes and e-scooters during its meeting Tuesday. Muskego is among a number of municipalities considering an ordinance, such as Hartland and Waukesha.
“We want to start with a discussion with the council to get some direction from them. I am recommending allowing the city attorney to draft an ordinance that adopts state law and puts limits on which if any trails they are allowed on. We will also discuss if a registration should be required,” Muskego Mayor Rick Petfalski said.
Petfalski recently posted on social media that the city has seen a noticeable increase in electric bikes and e-motos as warmer weather arrives.
“As the weather gets nicer, we are seeing more and more e-bikes and e-motos being used throughout the community, especially by younger riders,” Petfalski said. “Before this becomes a larger issue, I want to ask parents to please use some common sense and help us keep everyone safe.”
Petfalski said some vehicles are capable of speeds approaching 40 mph.
“That is a serious amount of speed for an 11-to 15-year-old who may not yet fully understand traffic laws, trail etiquette, reaction times, or the responsibilities that come with operating something that fast,” he said.
He urged parents to understand the capabilities of the vehicles they purchase for children.
“A top speed of 15 mph is already plenty fast for an unlicensed rider,” Petfalski said. “Some of these bikes are being marketed almost like toys, when in reality they are closer to small motorcycles in both speed and risk.”
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Petfalski emphasized that the city is not looking to aggressively enforce restrictions but wants riders and families to take safety seriously.
“We do not want to become the ‘big bad police’ and completely crack down on these bikes,” he said. “But parents also need to understand that these are not toys.”
He encouraged riders to obey traffic laws, yield appropriately, ride respectfully on trails and sidewalks, and wear helmets and other safety gear.
Petfalski added that Muskego is reviewing how neighboring communities are handling regulations and enforcement and may eventually present options to the Common Council.
“My preference is not to take a heavy-handed government approach,” he said. “I would much rather see parents, riders and the community work together to promote safe and responsible use before stricter enforcement becomes necessary.”
Petfalski also reminded residents that operators of golf carts and ATV/UTVs on approved city roads must be licensed drivers.
“Please use good judgment before turning over the keys to any motorized vehicle capable of causing serious injury,” he said.
The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. in Muskego City Hall, W182-S8200 Racine Ave.