CALIFORNIA BICYCLE NEWS AND CYCLING SAFETY TIPS BLOG

What Do California Cyclists Need to Know About Electric Bicycles?

Electric bicycles have enjoyed immense popularity overseas in Europe and China, but the idea is only now catching on here in the United States. Estimates on annual U.S. sales range from 50,000 to 175,000, and major bicycle manufacturers have developed their own line of electric bikes. Electric bicycles use an electricity-powered motor to move the bike forward, but the motor can be switched off in some models. Although electric bicycles cannot travel above 20 mph while powered by the motor, states such as New York have banned them and others have placed restrictions on modifications. Electric bikes face few bans in California, and state law recognizes them as conventional bicycles. However, there are specific restrictions that separate regular and electric bicycles apart. Cyclists under the age of 16 are not allowed to use electric bicycles, and all people riding them must wear a helmet. As of two weeks ago, the…
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May Is National Bike Month – How You Can Get Involved

May is National Bike Month, and there is a lot that San Diego cyclists can do to get involved. Throughout National Bike Month, we will regularly update our blog with posts on how you can get your bicycle ready, issues affecting cyclists in San Diego and upcoming events. Bike to Work Day to Advocate for San Diego Cyclists One of several events during National Bike Month will be Bike to Work Day, where cyclists can set aside the boredom of traditional vehicles and enjoy the beautiful San Diego outdoors. On May 15th, invite coworkers and friends to give cycling a chance for a day. Not only is it good for the environment, it is great for physical and mental health. The San Diego Bicycle Coalition hopes that cyclists can collectively break 25,000 miles on Bike to Work Day. Cycling advocates will use the event to encourage city officials to provide…
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Glowing Spray Paint to Help Cyclists Avoid Bicycle Accidents

A major auto manufacturer has released a “high-visibility spray” that can illuminate cyclists at night. The spray is currently being sold in select shops in London, but the idea might come to the United States. According to the developers, the paint can be used on any kind of fabric but not bicycles. Cyclists could get creative with the product, attaching it to clothing, shoes and bicycle helmets. The product can easily wash off and will not ruin surfaces where it is used. The high-visibility spray works by using special adhesives that are invisible during the day and glow with great intensity at night. To help illuminate surfaces where it is used, the paint reflects streetlights and headlights from vehicles. After spraying down a surface with the high-visibility paint, it will stick for one week. Although this product is very clever, it is not the only one available to help protect…
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