Hilton Head close to approving electric bikes on pathways. Here’s where they will be allowed
The Hilton Head Town Council has given preliminary approval to allowing electric bikes on public pathways on the island.
The new ordinance was passed 6-1 Tuesday on a first reading with Ward Four Councilwoman Tamara Becker voting against the proposal, saying she wasn’t “ready” to support the measure.
The ordinance changes policy regarding electric bikes in four ways:
- Electric bikes are allowed on public pathways and bike trails, and drivers must follow the same rules traditional bicyclists do.
- Recently purchased electric bikes must come with a safety and traditional bike and pathway etiquette guideline for users.
- Electric bikes must have labels stating their horsepower and maximum speed.
- It creates regulations around the leasing and sale of electric bikes.
Originally, the ordinance included a 12-mph speed limit, but this provision was removed from the final draft. The change comes after over a year of discussion over whether electric bikes should be allowed alongside traditional bikes.
Town municipal code bans vehicles with motors on public pathways, but the state doesn’t defines electric bikes as a motor vehicle. In April, the Public Planning Committee approved a measure for the use of electric bikes, which included the original 12-mph speed limit requirement.
In an email sent to Deputy Town Manager Josh Gruber, representatives for Bike Walk Hilton Head Island supported a bike speed limit.
“The most effective way to reach cyclists is to start with a phased-in approach and post speed limit signs on our most heavily traveled bike pathways,” the email said. “Even if enforcement of posted speed limits is not practical, at least cyclists will be aware of what the appropriate conduct is or should be.”
The new rule will not take effect immediately. The town council needs to pass the ordinance on a second reading in August before it can take effect.
This story was originally published July 21, 2022 at 4:55 AM.
