By Bike Newport
“You Have the power!” proclaims the new e-bike safety campaign. “You have the power and you have the control. Learn how to use both.”
In response to growing numbers of e-bike riders, Bike Newport now offers free e-bike classes – a combination of online, in-person, and on-bike. The classes are provided in Aquidneck Island schools, and at the Newport County YMCA and other community locations. The classes review the rules and best practices for safe operation of e-bikes, and are designed to empower e-bike riders with the knowledge and skills needed to safely navigate the island’s streets.
As people seek more affordable and accessible transportation options, the use of e-bikes is increasing. As a mode of personal transportation, they are outpacing traditional bicycles in sales. E-bikes are comparatively low-cost, dependable, comfortable, and easy to use. Along with traditional bikes, e-bikes are a contributor to reduction in traffic congestion and carbon emissions. Many people are choosing e-bikes in place of traditional bicycles so they can ride longer and farther. Along with communities everywhere, there is a need to educate e-bike riders and the general public about their safe operation.
Bike Newport’s two-part ‘You Have the Power” program is based on the “E-Bike Smart” program by People for Bikes to teach bike handling skills, traffic laws, road etiquette, bike maintenance, and all-important battery safety. Part 1 is a one-hour program available in-person or online that presents clear, simple, actionable methods for the best way to ride and care for the e-bike. Part 2 is an on-bike class with skills practice and a group ride.
Participation is free and open to riders aged 16+ with sessions tailored for youth, adults, and seniors available in both English and Spanish. Information and registration for upcoming classes is available at bikenewportri.org/ebike-education. Additionally, free posters from the “You Have The Power” campaign are available at Bike Newport. If you have questions, please email clare@bikenewportri.org.
Clare Woodhead, Director of Education at Bike Newport, shares, “E-bikes are providing dependable and sustainable transportation and recreation for more people. This program ensures that e-bike riders understand the power of their bikes and how to use them safely.”This community program is made possible thanks to generous support from Aquidneck Island State Representatives Lauren Carson, Marvin Abney, Terri Cortvriend, and Alan Finkelman, as well as the Rhode Island Foundation’s Newport County Fund, and Rhode Island Department of Transportation Division of Highway Safety.
Bike Newport is a leading advocate in our region for making bicycling accessible, safe, and inviting for all. Bike Newport works to create safer places to walk and ride for transportation and recreation by inspiring and facilitating innovative infrastructure planning, community engagement, and education.
As bicycling continues to emerge as a powerful solution to health, economic, and environmental challenges, Bike Newport serves the entire community with a strong focus on reaching people of all backgrounds, abilities, and neighborhoods—ensuring that our vision of “Biking for Everyone” becomes a reality.
