Around NWAFriday, November 6
Fayetteville bans high-speed electric motorcycles from sidewalks and trails
The Daily Rogers team
If you ride an electric dirt bike in Fayetteville, the street is your only option now. The City Council voted 7-0 Thursday to bar high-speed electric devices from sidewalks and trails. An emergency clause means the ordinance goes into effect immediately.
Fayetteville's new rules turn on age and power
- 16
- minimum age to ride on city streets
- 21
- age under which riders must wear a helmet
- 750 watts
- motor output that can qualify a device
- 28 mph
- motor-only speed that can qualify a device
Sources: KNWA FOX24, Fayetteville Flyer
Mayor Molly Rawn said the city heard complaints about riders on trails earlier this summer, and the rules aren't meant to touch traditional e-bikes. Back when the ordinance was introduced, she told KHBS, "We've seen kids as young as 12 on some of these things." Council Member Sarah Bunch, a co-sponsor, said young riders can form a "pack" that blocks the path.
- Also covered: devices with foot pegs or modified to go faster
- On roads, riders follow the same laws as car drivers
Where high-speed electric devices can go in Fayetteville
| Where | Rule |
|---|---|
| Streets | Operators must be 16 or older |
| Sidewalks | Prohibited |
| City trails | Prohibited, paved and natural-surface |
| Helmets | Required under age 21 |
Sources: KNWA FOX24, Fayetteville Flyer
Council Member Sarah Moore told KNWA/FOX24 she thinks state law "hasn't quite caught up" on these vehicles.
Sources: KNWA FOX24, Fayetteville Flyer, KHBS