Antonio Reynoso - Archived image
A. Katz | Shutterstock
Antonio Reynoso - Archived image
New York City prides itself on being at the forefront of innovation and adaptability. However, when it comes to the regulation of motorized bikes, we are falling dangerously behind, and the consequences are piling up—literally and figuratively. Despite growing evidence of the hazards posed by these vehicles, some city politicians, like Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, continue to oppose registering motorized bikes. Their resistance endangers public safety and overlooks the needs of the very communities they claim to represent.
This week Reynoso expressed, on his Instagram page, his support for continuing to allow motor bikes to fly through the streets of New York City with no accountability. Let’s be clear these are motorized bikes, not standard bicycles. Standard bicycles without motors travel at speeds of 5-15mph, whereas motorized bikes travel at speeds of 15mph to 28mph, which is above the legal speed limit for cars throughout New York City. It’s common sense that these motorized bikes should be registered. New Yorkers know it, but why don’t some politicians understand it?
A Growing Threat on NYC Streets
Motorized bikes, including e-bikes and e-scooters, are proliferating across the city. While they provide a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative for delivery workers and commuters, they have also become a significant safety concern.
These bikes are increasingly involved in collisions and near misses, with pedestrians bearing the brunt of injuries and close calls. From sidewalks to crowded intersections, motorized bikes—often traveling at speeds exceeding the legal limit—pose a clear and present danger, particularly to our seniors. Additionally, the recent surge in battery-related fires, caused by substandard or poorly maintained lithium-ion batteries, has led to tragic losses of life and property in our communities.
Ebikes Burned from Fire
Ebikes Burned from Fire photo credit Cory Doctorow https///pluralistic.net
Ebikes Burned from Fire
Ebikes Burned from Fire
Ebikes Burned from Fire photo credit Cory Doctorow https///pluralistic.net
Ebikes Burned from Fire
The Case for Registration
Registering motorized bikes is not about demonizing their users; it’s about accountability and public safety. Registration would create a system to identify vehicles, hold riders responsible for reckless behavior, and ensure that bikes meet safety standards. Currently, the lack of oversight allows a minority of irresponsible operators to jeopardize the well-being of New Yorkers.
Moreover, registration could help enforce the use of approved batteries and chargers, reducing the risk of fires. It’s a practical measure that mirrors the regulations applied to other motorized vehicles, like mopeds and motorcycles, which must adhere to stringent safety requirements to operate legally on city streets.
Why the Opposition Falls Flat
Critics, like Reynoso, argue that registering motorized bikes would place undue financial burdens on delivery workers and others who rely on them for their livelihoods. While this concern is valid, it should not outweigh the broader imperative of public safety. Solutions, such as subsidies or reduced registration fees for low-income riders, can address affordability concerns without abandoning the need for regulation.
The argument against registration also ignores the reality that unregulated motorized bikes often pose a greater threat to the very workers they serve. Fires from unsafe batteries have destroyed apartment buildings where delivery workers live, and the lack of enforcement leads to dangerous street conditions for everyone, including cyclists and pedestrians.
A Call to Act Before It’s Too Late
New York City has an opportunity to strike a balance between supporting the workers who depend on motorized bikes and protecting the public from their potential dangers. Registration is a common-sense solution that addresses both safety and accountability.
For politicians like Reynoso to oppose such measures is not just shortsighted—it’s irresponsible. Our streets are becoming increasingly chaotic, and our communities are suffering the consequences. The time to act is now. We cannot afford to wait for more tragedies before taking decisive steps to regulate motorized bikes.
New Yorkers deserve safe streets and sidewalks, and responsible leadership that prioritizes their well-being. Registration isn’t a burden; it’s a necessary tool to ensure that motorized bikes serve the city without compromising the safety of its residents.
I will follow up with the names of the City Council members who vote against the commonsense registration of motor bikes before they hit New York City streets. Not everyone who is an elected official is qualified to legislate, and this is a perfect example. Thank goodness Reynoso no longer has any power to vote on legislation.
Have an OpEd or NYC News Story that you would like to submit for possible publishing, email news@nycnewswire.com
