PEKIN, Ill. – A form of transportation is now prohibited on the streets of Pekin.
The city council Monday night voted 5-2 to ban the operation of low-speed gas-powered bicycles on streets, highways, alleys, sidewalks, or other paths set for bicycle use in the city. Electric-powered bicycles would still be allowed.
Police Chief Seth Ranney says issues with the gas-powered bicycles have grown in the past several years, including noise violations and a disregard for traffic laws and safety. City Manager John Dossey also noted that the gas-powered bikes can also be manipulated to go faster than intended.
“For lack of better terms, we’ve dodged a lot of bullets with these bikes, and I feel like, at some point, we’re going to have a significant injury or death, and we just don’t want that to happen,” Ranney said.
Those found in violation the first time would receive a written warning, but fines and impounding of bikes would follow for repeat offenses. A second offense would be a $100 fine, a third offense a $300 fine and impounding of the bike, with the fourth offense a $500 fine and impounding of the bike.
Alderman Jimmie Fletcher Jr. was one of the two ‘no’ votes. He raised concerns over punishing people who are following the law, and restricting personal choice.
“I just want you to understand that it’s very difficult for me to be one of the seven people to say ‘Hey, you’ve done everything you’re supposed to do, and unfortunately, we’re going to take that away from you,’” Fletcher said.
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