EDITORIAL: E-bikes rolling in popularity and complaints

One of the most common complaints people have about the North Idaho Centennial Trail, if not the most common complaint, is e-bikes.

Yes, e-bikes.

Too many.

Too fast.

Too close.

With each summer, as Coeur d'Alene continues to attract more and more visitors, we see more and more e-bikes zipping through neighborhoods, particularly Sanders Beach, and on the Centennial Trail. 

There are complaints of near misses, close calls, and even recklessness by e-bike riders traveling well over the 15 mph limit on the Centennial Trail. While most e-bikes require pedal assist, some do not and can reach speeds of around 25 mph, fast enough to cause injury if there is an accident.

Now, we don't want to pick on e-bikes or their riders. Most are courteous, pass with care and keep it to the two-bikers abreast rule rather than hogging the entire trail.

E-bikers are also solid business for our local bike shops, with rentals and sales. Shop owners and staff do a great job of explaining how to safely operate these electric-powered two-wheelers and follow basic road etiquette.

Many prefer this easy mode of transportation that requires little physical effort and offers a convenient, affordable way to see this city's beautiful sights. It gets people out of their vehicles, which is good for reducing the traffic congestion that is all too prevalent this time of year.

That said, there are some e-bikers who seem to think they can travel as fast and pass as close as they want. They don't like to slow down and frankly, won't unless they absolutely must. These are the folks who generate angst for pedestrians. It's the old adage of a few bad apples spoiling the whole bunch.

While some have called for police to get involved, our officers simply do not have time to monitor behavior on the North Idaho Centennial Trail. Nor should they have to take on this task.

So what we are calling for is nothing more than common courtesy. We welcome and encourage people to get out on e-bikes. They offer great advantages.

But please, adhere to the 15 mph limit, pass with care, give plenty of space, and slow down when approaching walkers, runners and dog walkers. It would help to alert trail users when you are about to pass by saying something simple as, "Passing on your left."

We are confident that e-bikes and pedestrians can happily co-exist.