E-BIKES: Agree with 50% of editorial

This letter is in response to the editorial in the Sunday edition on Aug. 3 titled “E-bikes rolling in popularity and complaints.”

I agree with 50% of the editorial. Let me explain. E-Bikes have become very popular recently because they have made it possible for more riders, who otherwise would not be able to enjoy the outdoors and the North Idaho Centennial Trail. On the other hand, this has made the trails more congested. But to focus on E-bikes as a main focus of complaints is completely wrong in my view. It’s not the technology, it’s how it’s used. I remember when mountain bikes first started hitting the trails and people wanted to keep them off the trails, and the same with snowboards, because of the “reckless use.” Now both are accepted. The issue should not be the equipment, it should be the user. I’ve seen reckless pedal road cyclists going over 25 MPH on the trail as well as pedestrians not letting people pass, walking 5 or 6 abreast or dog walkers letting their dogs roam leash free. Where I agree with the editorial is when it says we all should be kind and courteous on the trail. Be a great ambassador for your activity, whatever your activity is. It only takes a few bad apples to give a bad reputation to your activity.  

DAN BRONK

Post Falls