Local News

West Bend Common Council approved updates to the city's regulations governing bicycles

The West Bend Common Council approved updates to the City's regulations governing bicycles, electric bicycles, electric scooters, play vehicles, and in-line skates creating a more streamlined municipal code and refining portions of the recently adopted e-bike ordinance based on community feedback.

Key updates state that Wheeled Recreational Devices are to be:

- Operated in a reasonable and controlled manner – by all, and at all times.

- Permitted for all on most sidewalks and recreational trails – including the Riverwalk and Eisenbahn State Trail.

- Deferential to pedestrians at all times. Pedestrians always have the right-of-way on sidewalks.

- Accounted for by parents (if the user is aged 12 or younger).

Additional provisions are stated specifically for bicycle, e-bike, and e-scooter use. According to the new ordinance, these devices are to be:

- Operated in accordance with state law. The new ordinance maintains the State’s three-class e-bike system, which specifies that riders under the age of 16 may not operate a Class 3 e-bike, though they may ride as a passenger on a Class 3 e-bike designed to accommodate passengers.

- Used appropriately on City streets. Riders have the same rights and responsibilities as other vehicle operators when riding on roadways

- Safe and legally equipped. All bikes, e-bikes, and e-scooters must be maintained in safe mechanical condition and equipped with any required safety equipment. Riders aged 16 and older (or the parent or guardian of a rider under 16) are responsible for ensuring the device is properly used.