Are Motorized Bicycles Becoming A Problem On New Jersey Roadways? (Opinion)

Do You Agree That Some Oversight is Needed For Motorized Bikes?

There has been a huge increase in the number of electric bikes on the roads of New Jersey lately. Everywhere I go, I spot at least a few motorized bicycles. That's why I decided to throw out some thoughts on the issue of motorized bikes out there to see what YOU think.

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First, let's talk about the rules for these motorized bikes in New Jersey, according to the New Jersey Bicycle & Pedestrian Resource Center.

• Low-Speed Electric Bicycles: No license and registration required. Helmets for those under 17.
• Motorized Bicycle: License and registration required. Helmets required. (Gas or Electric)

So now let's discuss the way these bikes seem to have found themselves all over the roads. I was driving through Ocean County when I spotted 2 electric bikes coming my way and each bike was driven by a kid who looked about 13 and each bike had someone on the back, so 4 kids about 13 driving through traffic making illegal turns with no helmets and obviously no knowledge of traffic rules. The main point is how dangerous this could be. These kids are too young, in my opinion, to drive "motorized" vehicles in regular traffic paths.

20-30 mph is a fast enough speed to cause injury if you crash. What about if the crash involves an automobile? It could be a fatal mistake. Should kids be allowed to drive these bikes? What age would be good? Currently, you must be 15, but as I said I see younger kids riding them a lot.

According to Oyster, "According to the laws of New Jersey, it is permissible to ride electric bicycles on roadways. Electric bikes are required to be ridden on the right-hand side of the road. There are certain restrictions in place, such as a prohibition on riding electric bikes on Interstate highways, four-lane highways with a median made of grass or concrete and highways with a speed limit exceeding 50 mph."

So here are some questions for you:

• Should Kids Be Allowed To Ride Motorized Bicycles On Roadways?
• Should There Be An Age Requirement To Ride Motorized Bicycles?
• Should Motorized Bike Riders Be Required To Wear A Helmet?
• How Should We Regulate Motorized Bikes in New Jersey?

Post your comments below and let us know what you think.