On May 15, 2008, at 4:17 PM, Ross, Arthur wrote:
The important thing to note in the above definition is that it only applies to a bicycle which has had a motor added to it. A bicycle with a motor unit as a integral part of the vehicle, such as most of the new electric bicycles, is not a motor bicycle under this definition.
You can pull the front powered wheel off and put a normal wheel on, so I wouldn't consider that integral. Also, the motor won't actuate unless you are at least soft-pedaling, it is a pedal-assist unit so it seems to me that it fits the definition of a motorized bicycle pretty well.
Again, I really don't the next big craze for rowdy teenagers being tearing around at 22 mph on these comfort bikes with electric motors in the front wheel. The point of these bikes is to get some people, who maybe aren't as fit as those of us on this list, out riding bikes, knowing that the bike will help get them home if they get too tired to continue. Or perhaps it will allow the suit wearing professional to pedal to work with minimal effort so he (or she) does not mess up his (or her) duds. These bikes are a step forward for reducing automobile dependancy and should be embraced, not outcast.
As for bike/pedestrian interactions on the bike path, I think walkers and runners need to be more responsible for their own well being. They are on the bike path after all, they should expect a few bikes to whiz bike at whatever speed their riders can pedal them. They should travel in a manner that does not impede other trail users (IE no groups all over the trail or individuals right in the middle). Its just common courtesy. I usually give ring of the bell or a shout and many people do not hear it due to headphones or just being oblivious. If they don't like it they can go walk on the sidewalk, right?
Frank Hassler >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> I have a car. I made a choice. I ride my bike. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
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