If you’ve taken a stroll or a bike ride along the American River Multi-Use Trail lately, you’ve probably noticed that the peaceful Parkway is feeling a lot more like a racetrack these days.
In response to growing community frustration, Sacramento County Park Rangers recently teamed up with the Sacramento County Probation UTV Team and CHP motorcycle officers for a targeted enforcement sweep along the trail between Watt Avenue and Chase Drive.
The goal? Reining in the explosion of illegal, high-speed e-bikes and e-motorcycles that are putting families, runners, and casual cyclists at risk.
Citations, Tows, and “Fake” E-Bikes
During the operation, Rangers didn’t just hand out slaps on the wrist. They issued seven citations and towed four vehicles off the trail.
Among the violations were riders on Class 3 e-bikes (which are strictly banned on the trail), people riding without helmets, unregistered vehicles, and riders operating without a proper motorcycle license endorsement.
Rangers clocked multiple riders pushing speeds approaching 30 mph—double the Parkway’s strictly enforced 15 mph speed limit. Furthermore, officials noted that several vehicles being marketed or represented as “e-bikes” were actually full-blown e-motorcycles upon closer inspection, making them entirely illegal for trail use.
The Rules of the Trail
As a reminder for local riders heading out to the Parkway, here is what is allowed:
- Speed Limit: 15 mph for all users.
- Class 1 & 2 E-Bikes: Allowed (these top out at 20 mph with pedal-assist or throttle).
- Class 3 E-Bikes: Banned. (These can reach 28 mph and are not permitted on the multi-use trail).
- E-Motorcycles / Gas Bikes: Banned.
Headed for the Impound Lot: Strict New Penalties Start June 19
If you think you’ll just get a friendly warning next time you’re caught speeding on the trail, think again.
Recent changes to Sacramento County ordinances have given Park Rangers a lot more muscle to deal with reckless riders. Beginning Friday, June 19, Rangers will have the discretion to pursue misdemeanor charges for certain violations, rather than just writing simple infractions.
“These enforcement efforts are about more than issuing citations,” said Commander Trevor Schnitzius. “Our goal is to address the public’s concerns regarding unsafe e-bike and e-motorcycle activity, improve safety for everyone who uses the trail and educate riders… visitors should expect to see continued enforcement throughout the Parkway.”
The joint operations are set to continue throughout the summer. Local riders are heavily encouraged to learn the classification of their electric bikes and keep the speeds under 15 mph before heading out, or risk a very expensive walk home.
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