On Tuesday BC Parks implemented a new policy to limit the use of electric bikes (e-bikes) in provincial parks.
The growing popularity of e-bikes is putting pressure on sensitive ecosystems, wildlife and other values in the province's parks, according to a statement by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
"Cycling in parks can have an impact on trails and wildlife," the ministry statement said. "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."
The regulations for e-bikes is based on a three-class system used by industry and other government bodies.
Class 1 e-bikes are not considered motor vehicles under provincial regulations, and are can be used anywhere cycling or mountain biking is already permitted - unless signs specifically indicate the trail is closed to all e-bike access.
Class 1 e-bikes have motors which only provide assistance if the rider is pedaling, with a continuous maximum output of 500 W and a top speed for pedal assist of 32 km/h.
Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes are considered motor vehicles under provincial regulations, and can only be used in park areas where motor vehicle use is permitted - on roads and designated off-road vehicle trails. Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes have electric motors capable of driving the bike while the rider is not pedaling, to a top speed of 32 km/h for Class 2 bikes and 45 km/h for Class 3.
Adaptive mountain bikes for people with disabilities are allowed in the same places Class e-bikes are allowed, as long as they meet the following criteria: three or four wheels, hand or foot crank to propel the bike without electric power and a motor with a maximum output of 800 W.
In the Prince George region, the change in rules means Class 2 and Class 3 e-bikes are no longer allowed on the trails at Eskers Provincial Park, Pine Le Moray Provincial Park, or the designated cycling trails at Mount Robson Provincial Park and Crooked River Provincial Park. Cycling is prohibited in many other provincial parks in the region, or restricted to roadways only.
More information about the province's e-bike policy can be found online at www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/recreation/biking/. Information about what is allowed at specific parks can be found online at http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parks/.
