L.A. City Council Panel Approves Proposal to Restrict E-Bikes on Recreational Trails

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 02:33:00 +0200

The Arts, Parks, Libraries, and Community Enrichment Committee of the Los Angeles City Council voted unanimously to ban electric bikes (e-bikes) from most recreational trails in the city. The proposal, introduced by Councilmember John Lee, is intended to improve safety for hikers and equestrians who share these trails. While regular bicycles are already prohibited on designated trails, e-bikes were previously in a legal gray area, prompting this proposal. The ban would still permit e-bikes on designated bikeways, such as routes along the L.A. River and city beaches. Councilmember Adrin Nazarian supported the measure but suggested possible modifications, including restricting only certain classes of e-bikes rather than enforcing a full ban. Advocates for the ban, including representatives from the Monteverde Ranch Equestrian Center, highlighted concerns about spooked horses and the risks posed to riders. Critics, such as the director of BikeLA, argued that the approach is overly simplis