HR Police Undertake E-Bike Safety and Enforcement campaign
By Tom Peterson
Hood River, Ore., Aug. 22, 2025 — With the new school year approaching and e-bike use rising among teens, the Hood River Police Department is launching an education campaign followed by targeted enforcement of Oregon’s e-bike laws, focusing on rider age, safety and where the bikes can be used.
Police say they have seen a sharp increase in micromobility traffic—especially e-bikes ridden by juveniles—and growing confusion about the rules. After a short period of outreach to students, parents and visitors, officers will begin citing violations under ORS 814.512, which prohibits operating an e-bike under age 16. The citation is a Class D violation carrying a fine of up to $115, enforceable on public premises, roadways, highways and city streets.
The department’s message is straightforward: “Ride Safe. Ride Smart. Ride Legally.” Officials are asking parents and guardians to help reinforce safe riding and compliance at home.
The release also clarifies what riders should know:
Age: Riders must be 16 or older to operate any e-bike.
Helmet: Strongly recommended for all riders to reduce injury risk.
License/registration/insurance: Not required in Oregon for e-bikes.
Where and how to ride: Obey traffic laws and signals, yield to pedestrians, use bike lanes where available, do not ride on sidewalks, and use approved lights in low-visibility conditions.
Classes of e-bikes:
Class 1 assists only while pedaling, up to 20 mph.
Class 2 can propel without pedaling, up to 20 mph.
Class 3 assists only while pedaling, up to 28 mph, and must have a speedometer.
Why it matters: The policy aims to curb injuries and near-misses as more young riders share streets with cars, trucks and pedestrians. Clear rules—and a warning that citations are coming—give families time to adjust before enforcement begins.
What’s next: Officers will start with education and reminders, then move to citations where violations persist. Residents with questions about equipment, routes or age limits are encouraged to review the guidance and talk with teens before school traffic ramps up.
