With warmer weather bringing more people outdoors, Comox Valley RCMP is reminding residents to brush up on the rules for electric bikes and e-scooters.

Police say Courtenay, Comox, and Cumberland are all participating in B.C.’s electric kick scooter pilot program, allowing riders aged 16 and older to use e-scooters on public roads, subject to local bylaws.

E-bikes, legally classified as motor-assisted cycles, are also allowed on public roads, provided they meet provincial requirements.

Standard e-bikes can travel up to 32 kilometres an hour and require riders to be at least 16 years old, while light e-bikes have a top speed of 25 kilometres an hour and can be ridden by those 14 and older.

RCMP say helmets are required for both e-bikes and e-scooters, and riders should use designated bike lanes whenever possible or stay as close as practical to the right side of the road.

Police also remind riders that sidewalks and crosswalks are off-limits, and passengers are not permitted.

Constable Brad Landers with the Comox Valley RCMP Traffic Unit says everyone has a role to play in keeping roads and pathways safe, urging all users to stay alert, be patient, and show consideration for others.

For more information on provincial regulations, visit:

Electric kick scooter rules and safety - Province of British Columbia

ICBC Operating Rules, Low-powered vehicles

Bike and e-bike rules and safety - Province of British Columbia