As peak cycling season approaches, many Calgarians are questioning the safety of e-bikes. Community complaints and expert insights highlight growing concerns.
Community Complaints on the Rise
Mike Stiles, president of the Evanston-Creekside Community Association, says electric bikes have become the most dominant topic in the community. Since fall 2025, a group of youths riding high-powered Surron e-motorbikes has caused extensive property damage, costing thousands of dollars in repairs. Stiles notes that elderly residents are scared for their safety due to reckless riding.
Similar concerns have been raised in Facebook groups for Coventry Hills, Harvest Hills, and Bowness, with excessive speed being a key issue.
Legal Distinctions: E-Bike vs. E-Dirt Bike
Under Alberta's Traffic Safety Act, a legal e-bike (power-assisted bicycle) has a maximum speed of 32 km/h, a motor of 500 watts or less, and must have pedals. These bikes can be used on sidewalks but with pedal-assist disengaged. Riders must wear a helmet and be at least 12 years old.
Vehicles like Surron e-motorbikes, with top speeds of 60-110 km/h, are classified as limited speed motorcycles (mopeds) if under 70 km/h, requiring a Class 7 licence, insurance, and a helmet. Anything over 70 km/h is a motorcycle. On Calgary pathways, power-assisted bicycles must not exceed 20 km/h, while limited speed motorcycles must stay on roadways and follow vehicle rules.
The Online Marketplace Boom
Calgarians can buy e-bikes from local retailers like Amego EV Calgary and Pedego Calgary, but online platforms like Amazon and Temu offer cheaper options with wider selections. As of May 2026, Amazon Canada lists 738 electric bikes, scooters, and trikes from 67 brands, while Temu has over 1,400 e-bike items. Combined with other online retailers, Canadians have access to thousands of e-bikes that can be shipped directly to their homes.
