Tensions Flare as Southern California Surf Communities Fight over E-Bikes
Who’s an expert on e-bikes – electronically-motored bicycles – these days?
There has to be someone out there. Someone who knows how they work, the best ones on the market, which ones to stay away from, et cetera et cetera.
However, there’s been a weird, somewhat unholy marriage between surfing and e-bikes in the last few years, particularly at spots like Trestles in San Clemente, CA, where, it’s quite a trek down to the wave from the available parking. Hence, the e-bike craze. But not everyone’s happy about it. Hence, the whole curfuffle below:
Legendary longborder Joel Tudor posted an image of a sticker reading, “no e-bikes in California State Parks,” with the caption: “Greatest sticker ever made.”
Lighter fuel, poured. Match, sparked.
The comments were as follows (first from a few of the more recognizable names):
“Not sure why they are called ebikes, a bicycle with a motor is usually called a motorcycle?” – Tom Servais (iconic surf photographer).
“One day they will understand when it’s a 5mph state park speed limit n 11 olds go 20mph on a beach trail n hit old ladies, & there is no open space left in the line up and on the beach. 9-15 year old Kids without license or permits doin wheelies in the middle of lanes n intersections on a motorized bike not following the rules of the road. Oh wait were all ready there. Or how about when your in a area of relaxation like a walkway to a beach n people ride these massive dork bikes up n expect you to move for them cause they are to lazy n busy to walk n take a moment. They are not working out, just thinking they are enjoying the world but yet no sweat broke.” – pro surfer, artist, and long-time Trestles surfer, Tyler Warren.
In fact, Warren has even started a petition to ban e-bikes at California State Parks. He's seeking 5,000 signatures (just over 3,000 at publish time). Check out that petition, and hear more about what Warren has to say on the matter here.
Many more comments proceeded; which side of the aisle do you stand on the e-bike debate? More to (absolutely) come; the end is nowhere nigh.
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