Province adds e-bike policy

Photo: Province of BC

Electric-assist bikes have become the rage this year and they are especially popular on the Rail Trail and other paved paths in the Okanagan Valley.

BC Parks is implementing an e-bike policy to help protect sensitive wildlife, ecosystems and cultural values, the province said in a release Tuesday.

Following the e-bikes classification system already being used by industry and other government bodies, the new policy allows e-bikes in certain areas, depending on the classification.

Limited access to ORT

People with Class 1 e-bikes can ride on any BC Parks trail where mountain bikes or other cycling is already allowed. People with Class 2 and 3 e-bikes can only ride on trails and/or roads designated for motorized vehicles, depending on the park. People using adaptive mountain bikes are allowed in areas designated for Class 1 e-bike use.

Cycling in parks can have an impact on trails and wildlife, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy said in their release.

"Electric bikes allow more riders to use trails and reach areas that were previously limited to a few visitors, leading to increased pressure on sensitive wildlife and ecosystems," they said.

The new e-bikes policy is now in effect. Anyone with an e-bike is encouraged to visit the BC Parks website for specific information on where they can ride.

Classifications for e-bikes can be viewed at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/recreation/biking