E-Bike Accommodations

JSTS accommodates Low Speed Pedal-Assist Electric Bikes (E-Bikes) on club rides.  These E-bikes include the following attributes:

• They do not have any throttle.
• The motor provides assistance only while the rider is pedaling.

Please note that some of our existing routes use bike paths or multi-use paths, some of which have E-Bike restrictions.  For example, Sandy Hook has a 10 mph speed limit and Class 3 E-Bikes are prohibited on multi-use paths.  The Henry Hudson trail bans Class 3 E-Bikes.  If you have a Class 3 E-Bike, please check the route before participating in a ride to confirm there are no E-Bike restricted paths on the route.

The following general rules also apply:

1. All members must be in compliance with New Jersey E-Bike Bill - S4834.
2. E-Bike riders will observe and follow JSTS rules and policies governing ride safety and etiquette absent the provision of any other rules specific to E-Bikes.
3. The role of ride leaders remains unchanged. They are responsible for ensuring that all riders are made aware of the ride rules and their responsibility for obeying them and established traffic laws. As such, ride leaders are not responsible for determining whether a rider is using an E-Bike or what type of E-Bike a rider may be using.
4. Similar to cyclists on a conventional bicycle that participate in group rides, ride leaders have the authority to speak with any rider of an E-Bike if, in their judgment, they feel that rider is compromising the safety of others on the ride. This authority also includes making them aware of what they are doing incorrectly or to request that the E-Bike rider maintain a position at the back of the group ride to ensure the safety of others.
5. E-Bike riders that participate in group rides are responsible for knowing the ride rules and following those rules, with particular emphasis on ride pace.
6. E-Bike riders may participate in all group rides regardless of speed. However, E-Bike riders shall participate in group rides where the established pace is no greater than rides they have demonstrated experience with, preferably experience they have developed previously on a conventional bicycle.  E-Bike riders new to cycling should select slower pace rides until they demonstrate appropriate bike-handling skills commensurate with higher pace groups.
7. Note that riding in a paceline requires skills acquired over time, and with it comes inherent risks.  These risks are increased when using a heavier, more powerful E-bike.
8. E-Bike riders should not aggressively pass regular bike riders when proceeding up grades or in noticeably adverse wind conditions.
9. E-Bike riders are encouraged to ensure they have sufficient battery reserves to enable them to complete the ride they have chosen. If a spare battery is carried by the rider or affixed or upon the E-bike, it must be securely attached.