DAVIDSON, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — The Town of Davidson has approved a new ordinance aimed at cracking down on the improper use of e‑bikes and scooters, following a rise in community complaints about kids riding high‑powered electric bikes recklessly on sidewalks and greenways.
Davidson Police Chief Philip Geiger said the goal is to make public areas safer for everyone.
“The main purpose behind this is really to add safety considerations for roads, sidewalks and greenways for all users,” Geiger said.
Former NASCAR driver’s Lake Norman property hits the market at $6.5 million
Town leaders voted this week to strengthen penalties for misuse of motorized bikes, especially those capable of reaching speeds well above 30 mph — bikes officials say they should not be in the hands of children under 16.
Clearing up confusion
Local bike shops say part of the problem comes from confusion over the wide range of electric bikes on the market. At Spirited Cyclist, sales manager Stephen Vaughan said not all e‑bikes are created equal.
“It really comes down to knowledge of what the differences are and not classifying everything as one entity,” Vaughan said. “One e‑bike is not the same as this e‑bike.”
A traditional pedal-assist e‑bike helps riders reach up to about 20 mph. But other models equipped with throttles function more like motorcycles, capable of much higher speeds.
“This is meant to be a motorcycle,” Vaughan said, pointing to a throttle-equipped model. “It’s meant to be a dirt bike … not necessarily ripping down the streets and sidewalks.”
New enforcement rules
Under the updated ordinance, e-bikes are defined as pedal assisted bicycles 20 miles per hour or less. They are allowed on sidewalks and shared use paths. Modified e-bikes are treated as a moped or motorcycle that can reach speeds of 30 miles per hour or more. They are not permitted on sidewalks and shared use points.
The issue gained attention last summer when residents reported kids riding powerful bikes on sidewalks and public paths, creating safety hazards.
Under the new ordinance:
Police may impound an incorrectly used motorized bike if the rider is underage or an owner can’t immediately be identified.
Impounded bikes come with fines of $100 for the first offense, $200 for the second, and $500 for subsequent violations. This is for operators over 18.
Criminal penalties (Class 3 misdemeanor) include operating without required insurance and proper registration.
Geiger said officers will exercise discretion as the rules take effect.
“The officers have discretion as to whether they will choose education or enforcement,” he said. “I do encourage them to strongly embrace education especially for those first couple of months.”
When enforcement starts
Police say they do not plan to begin full enforcement until later this spring. For now, they’ll prioritize educating riders and families.
Residents who see unsafe e‑bike or scooter use are encouraged to call 911.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
