News

With e-bikes becoming more popular - especially among youth - the Glastonbury Police Department is reminding families to make safety a top priority and follow Connecticut laws for electric bicycle operation.

⚖️ Know the Rules. Ride Responsibly.

✅ Helmets are required by law for all e-bike riders and passengers, regardless of age.

🚫 Riders under 16 may not operate Class 3 e-bikes, which can reach speeds of up to 28 mph.

💡 All e-bikes must be equipped with proper lights and reflectors:

• White front light (visible from 500 feet)
• Red rear light or reflector (visible from 600 feet)
• Side reflectors for visibility

🚫 Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks, multi-use trails, or bike paths.

📜 E-bike riders must follow all rules of the road, including (but not limited to):

• Riding on the right side
• Yielding to pedestrians
• Obeying stop signs and traffic lights

⚠️ Violations may result in fines, juvenile review board referrals, or bike seizure.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parents & Guardians:

• Please carefully consider whether your child is ready to safely operate an e-bike. Serious crashes have occurred across the state involving young riders.
• Talk with your child about helmet use, safe riding, and traffic laws.
• Ensure your child’s e-bike is properly equipped and that they understand where they can legally ride.
• Supervision is key—especially for younger or inexperienced riders.

📞 Have questions about whether your e-bike or other motorized/electric vehicle is legal?
Contact Sergeant Brian Barao at 860-652-4282 or brian.barao@glastonbury-ct.gov.

Let’s work together to keep our community—and our kids—safe!