politicsliberal

Riding into Trouble: The E-Bike Dilemma

New York, USAMonday, January 5, 2026
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New York City's streets are buzzing with e-bikes, but not in a good way. These speedy machines are causing chaos, and the city is struggling to keep up.

The Problem

  • Unregulated Speed: E-bikes zoom down sidewalks, ignore traffic rules, and leave a trail of accidents.
  • No Accountability: There's no way to track them or hold anyone accountable.

The city has a history of adapting to new technology, but now, they're lagging behind. E-bikes are everywhere, and they're causing more accidents than ever.

The Argument Against Regulation

Some people argue that regulating e-bikes is a bad idea. They say it could lead to discrimination against immigrant workers who rely on e-bikes for delivery jobs. But this argument is flawed. It assumes that immigrants can't handle the same rules that other drivers follow.

A Solution from Amsterdam

Amsterdam has managed to make their streets safe for both bikes and pedestrians by:

  • Requiring Licenses: Fast e-bikes must be licensed and insured.
  • Simple Solution: It's a straightforward way to keep everyone safe.

The Way Forward

The city needs to stop dragging its feet and start making changes. They could use technology like cameras to enforce the rules without involving the police. It's a modern solution that could make a big difference.

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