Electric bikes limited on Pacific Grove Rec Trail

Biking is one of the most popular ways to see the Monterey coastline. “I got to see more on a bike than I would in a car,” said tourist, Paulina Mascaro.

Pacific Grove Police have their eyes on cyclists, specifically, those riding electric bikes or “e-bikes.” Residents said the battery-charged bikes are a danger to those who come to enjoy the Rec Trail. “You get a bunch of those guys out here on those electric things. They go 25 to 30 miles an hour. That is kind of scary,” said resident, Harold Cook.

E-bikes stole the hearts of adventure seekers on the Monterey Peninsula. Last November, popular Monterey vendor, Adventures by the Sea, began renting out the “Genze.” Genze bikes have a powerful battery to help you go the distance with ease.

“They are an excellent way to see our town, but there is concern over the speed. Some bikes are much heavier than other bikes. The speed limit is close to 20 miles an hour,” said Commander Rory Lakind with the Pacific Grove Police Department.

Lakind said city code prohibits people from operating motor vehicles on the Rec Trail, and has since 1978.

With the rise of new technology, residents told police the area needs more monitoring. “It is dangerous because they are too many people that are walking, too many children that are going in both directions, and a lot of visitors that don’t know that you are supposed to be walking on one side and biking on the other side,” said resident, Susan Seers.

Police said they want to educate cyclists rather than ticket them. They ask that riders turn off their electric setting when on the trail

“We have a big impact of tourism in the area. They are out here to have fun, but I think it needs to be regulated,” said Cook.

Pacific Grove Police plan to host a meeting with local e-bike vendors in the next few weeks. The public is invited.