Independence could ban some teenagers from riding motorized bikes in most places

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. (KCTV) - Proposed changes regarding motorized bicycles in one city could make it illegal for some teenagers to ride them in many areas.

Independence City Council introduced a proposed change to the city’s rules during a meeting earlier this week. The changes address safety involving motorized bicycles and e-scooters.

Supporters said the idea is to address their growing popularity and ensure riders are using them as safely as possible.

If approved, the ordinance clarifies that riders should generally follow the same traffic laws as people driving vehicles.

One of the biggest proposed changes is that anyone riding a motorized bicycle on a public road would be required to have a valid driver’s license. It also proposes a ban on motorized bicycles on sidewalks.That means 13 and 14-year-olds would not be allowed to legally ride motorized bicycles in most public places, if the proposals are approved,

Other proposed changes include:

• How to ride
  • must ride on a fixed seat
  • no more passengers than designed for
  • must have at least one hand on handlebars at all times.
• Where to ride: 
  • ride on the right side of the road
  • no more than two side-by-side
  • use a provided bike path when available
• Sidewalk restrictions
  • no riding on sidewalks in business districts
  • riders 13+ not allowed to side on sidewalks
  • yield for pedestrians
  • signal when passing pedestrians
• Safety equipment at night
  • front white light required
  • rear red reflector required
  • additional reflective/lighting visibility required
  • brakes must stop within 25 feet at 10 mph
  • no sirens/whistles
• Licensing and highways 
  • valid driver’s license required if operating on public roads
  • prohibited on interstates

Independence council members plan to consider the proposal at a future meeting.