Bend Police Department announced Sunday, Sept. 6, that three juveniles were cited for traffic violations after a group of more than 30 teens on electric motorcycles seized travel lanes and rode recklessly through the city. The incident began at the Mt. Bachelor Park & Ride lot, where the riders gathered before speeding down Galveston Avenue and onto west‑side streets near SW Columbia Street.
Details of the citations
A 14‑year‑old riding an e‑bike was cited for operating the vehicle without a license and was referred to the Deschutes County Juvenile Community Justice system. Police also stopped a 12‑year‑old on an e‑motorcycle capable of reaching 34 mph as the youth attempted to enter the Bend Parkway; the 12‑year‑old received the same referral for driving without a license.
The third citation involved a 15‑year‑old on an e‑motorcycle that can travel over 50 mph. The teen was cited for lacking a driver’s license, failing to wear a helmet and operating a moped on a sidewalk. Officers impounded the vehicle and later recovered additional e‑motorcycles hidden at a private residence, where the homeowner asked officers to remove the bikes. The department collected the motorcycles as found property.
Police reminder to families
With the new school year underway, Bend police used the incident to remind families of Oregon’s traffic laws that apply to minors. Under state law, children under 16 may not ride e‑bikes, and e‑bikes are prohibited on sidewalks. Moreover, off‑road electric motorcycles that travel faster than 28 mph without pedaling and cannot be registered are illegal on city streets, sidewalks or trails within city limits.
Chief of Police Mike Haines emphasized that these rules are in place to protect young riders and the broader community. “We understand that teens are eager to try new technology, but safety must come first,” Haines said. “Parents and guardians play a crucial role in ensuring their children follow the law and wear proper safety gear.”
Community response
Local parents expressed concern about the growing popularity of high‑speed e‑motorcycles among younger riders. “I’ve seen my kids’ friends riding these things at dangerous speeds,” said Sarah Martinez, a Bend resident and mother of two. “We need clear guidance and enforcement to keep our streets safe.”
City officials have not indicated any immediate changes to local ordinances, but the police department plans to increase patrols in areas where e‑motorcycle activity is high and to work with schools on safety education programs.
What’s next?
The three juveniles will appear before the Deschutes County Juvenile Community Justice system, where they may face additional penalties or required safety courses. Police continue to monitor the situation and encourage residents to report unsafe riding behavior.
For more information on Oregon’s e‑bike and e‑motorcycle regulations, residents can visit the Oregon Department of Transportation website or contact the Bend Police Department directly.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
