Coffee With Councilors: Electric Bikes, Bridge Updates, and Rutting Elk Concerns

Electric Bikes and Trail Safety

The meeting kicked off with a detailed discussion about the regulation of electric bikes in Cannon Beach. Craig raised concerns about the safety and regulation of electric bikes, specifically on trails and in traffic. He noted that he had encountered teenagers riding electric bikes at high speeds on trails where they shouldn't be. City Manager Bruce St. Denis clarified that electric bikes are prohibited on certain trails under the emerging mobility devices code restrictions, but are allowed on streets and some outer trails. The conversation also touched on the lack of helmet laws for riders over 16 and the state's consideration of allowing electric bikes on all beaches. The council acknowledged the need for better signage and possibly revisiting the regulations for personal use of electric bikes.