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Police chief raises e-bike safety concerns, cites enforcement limits without state rules
Summary
Kensington Police Chief reported increased complaints about e-bike riders, distinguishing pedal‑assisted and dirt‑bike style devices, and said lack of state regulation complicates enforcement.
Police Chief Scott Cain told the Board of Selectmen that complaints have risen regarding e-bike usage on town roads and that the department faces enforcement challenges because state regulations are absent.
The chief described two types of devices: pedal‑assisted models he estimated at about 750 watts equivalent and dirt‑bike–style no‑pedal units he said are likely unsafe for road use; he said youth riders have been operating in traffic and creating hazards. No injuries were reported in Kensington but the chief cited incidents in other towns as cause for concern.
Selectmen did not vote on an ordinance or local rule at the meeting; the discussion centered on identifying the problem and coordination with state authorities for a regulatory framework or guidance.
