INVERNESS, Fla. — In recent years, electric bicycles — or e-bikes — have become a popular mode of transportation.
So much so that a potential roadmap for their regulation was discussed at the state capitol in Tallahassee. But those discussions were struck down, leaving it up to local municipalities to create their own rules.
Rules that are getting the conversation started in the City of Inverness.
If you take a bike ride along the Withlacoochee State Trail, it’s clear to see why so many enjoy it.
“There’s a lot of locations to definitely check out and I think that’s what drives this community to be so bicycle oriented,” says Ryan DeLarco, owner of Sparky’s Green Rides.
It’s why DeLarco has owned his bike shop in downtown Inverness for five years. A popular seller of his is electric bicycles or e-bikes. Equipped with an electric horn and turn signals.
“After Covid, we grew a little more, and it’s kind of just stayed steady ever since,” says DeLarco. “At one time it was a fad, but now they actually figured out it is like the Fountain of Youth by riding a bicycle because it keeps their hips, their knees, everything in motion.”
Their popularity, DeLarco says, has grown over the years. But classifying them has become a little complicated. Both a standard bicycle and an e-bike are considered a human-powered bicycle. Whereas an e-moto bike is in its own category.
“It’s more like being on a dirt bike. Of course, it would have no pedals, excessive speeds of 30 to 40 miles an hour. So what we’re trying to do is get parents to be more knowledgeable with their kids.”
E-bikes have also become the center of attention at city hall. With safety at the top of mind for city officials.
“We’re trying to make sure that the folks that are out there using these e-bikes to come into our town and be part of the local economy, that they’re doing it in a safe manner,” says Eric Williams, city manager for the City of Inverness. “In a way that’s going to be enjoyable for many years to come.”
It’s why the Sheriff’s Office is implementing a community outreach campaign. Both online and in-person.
“Talking to the kids as they exit school for the day, talking to them about the bikes they’re riding, pointing out the use of the helmets.”
Lt. Raymond Fischer says the campaign starts with education. Educating riders on what they’re doing right and wrong.
“We stop them, make contact with them and explain the infraction,” said Lt. Fischer. “The whole goal is safety. We’re at the education level. Punishment is not something that we’re really; that’s not our goal. Our goal is just to educate everyone and let them enjoy this area.”
A sentiment shared by DeLarco and a campaign he says he can get on board with.
“We all just need to use common courtesy and manners when we get around pedestrians and other riders, and I think that should prefill it.”
So that many more cycling enthusiasts can enjoy these trails.
The Sheriff’s Office says it will continue educating the public on proper e-bike riding etiquette. Helmets are required for riders under 16 years of age and are recommended for all.