Safety concerns rise in Kaysville over e-bikes, e-motorcycles
May 05, 2026 03:44PM ● By Cindi Mansell
Police Officers report an increase in unsafe and illegal electric vehicle use across the city. Courtesy/Kaysville City
As warmer weather draws more residents outdoors, Kaysville’s streets, trails, and parks are seeing a surge in activity – and with it, a growing number of safety concerns involving e-bikes, scooters, and electric motorcycles.
According to the Kaysville Police Department, officers have recently seen an uptick in unsafe and illegal riding practices. Reported issues include underage individuals operating electric motorcycles, riders not wearing helmets, and frequent violations of traffic laws. Police also cite improper use of sidewalks and trails, along with damage to city parks and public spaces.
“These devices can be a convenient and enjoyable way to get around,” police officials said, “but when used improperly, they can pose serious risks to both riders and the community.”
Understanding the type of vehicle being used – and where it is legally allowed – is a key part of staying safe. E-bikes are divided into three classifications:
• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with a maximum speed of 20 mph.
• Class 2: Equipped with a throttle, also limited to 20 mph.
• Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph and equipped with a speedometer.
Higher-powered electric motorcycles fall outside these classifications and are not considered bicycles. As a result, they require proper registration and licensing and are prohibited from operating on sidewalks, trails, and in city parks.
Kaysville Police are taking a proactive approach to address these concerns, including issuing warnings to educate riders; issuing citations when violations occur; and impounding vehicles when necessary. Enforcement will continue to increase in areas where unsafe or illegal riding is occurring.
The department emphasizes that maintaining safety is a shared responsibility. Riders are encouraged to follow traffic laws, respect posted regulations, ride only in permitted areas, meet age requirements, and wear proper safety gear. Officials warn that continued misuse could lead to stricter regulations and reduced access to public spaces.
By taking a few extra moments to ride responsibly, residents can help prevent accidents, protect public property, and ensure that electric vehicles remain a safe and welcome part of the community.
