Dear Sir,

I understand why the Government is introducing stronger regulations for electric bikes. Safety on Bermuda’s roads must come first. I appreciate this personally, having been hit by a car twice this year while riding my electric bike. Reasonable requirements concerning helmets, registration, insurance and responsible riding can help protect everyone.

However, I hope the practical and financial consequences for ordinary riders will also be considered. For many people, an electric bike is not a luxury or recreational toy. It is an environmentally responsible and economically viable way of getting to work, attending appointments and participating in community life — particularly for those who cannot afford a car or conventional motorcycle.

My electric bike has a maximum speed of approximately 30mph. I recognise that riders must obey Bermuda’s speed limits regardless of what their vehicle can achieve. Nevertheless, there is an important difference between a modest electric bicycle used for daily transportation and a high-powered electric motorcycle.

A graduated system of regulation, based on a bike’s speed, power and intended use, may therefore be fairer than treating every electric bike in exactly the same way. The costs of licensing and insurance should also remain affordable, so regulation does not unintentionally remove a vital transport option from people already living on tight budgets.

Good law should improve safety without creating unnecessary hardship. With consultation, clear guidance and proportionate costs, Bermuda can protect road users while continuing to encourage greener and more accessible transportation.

REVEREND AUGUSTINE TANNER-IHM

Hamilton