RAGBRAI organizers are embracing the growing trend of electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, in this year’s ride across Iowa from Onawa to Dubuque. While some cities in Iowa are considering new ordinances to regulate e-bikes, RAGBRAI is focusing on promoting safe riding practices and etiquette among participants.

E-Bikes and Safety

Scott Sumpter, founder of BikeIowa, believes that the issue with e-bikes is not the device itself, but rather the behavior of the riders. He advocates for educating riders on how to safely operate e-bikes and follow the same rules of the road as traditional cyclists. This includes practicing on the e-bike before the ride, staying with the flow of traffic, announcing passes, and planning battery usage ahead of time.

RAGBRAI Ride Director Matt Phippen agrees, stating that e-bikes are a great option for many riders, especially those who may struggle with the physical demands of biking across Iowa. However, he emphasizes the importance of rider etiquette, such as not weaving through groups of riders and treating shared trails with respect.

Why E-Bikes are Popular

For many participants, e-bikes are not just about going faster, but also about being able to complete the ride despite physical limitations or medical conditions. Pete Dempsey, owner of Back Roads Battery, has seen a significant increase in demand for e-bike charging services along the RAGBRAI route, with around 40% of his business now dedicated to e-bike charging.

As RAGBRAI continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that e-bikes are becoming an integral part of the ride. By promoting safe riding practices and etiquette, organizers hope to create a positive and enjoyable experience for all participants, regardless of whether they’re riding a traditional bike or an e-bike.

Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.