NYC’s New 15 MPH E-Bike Speed Limit Sparks Backlash From Riders: ‘We Can’t Make a Living That Slow’

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK — Beginning Friday, October 24, e-bike and e-scooter riders across New York City will be limited to 15 miles per hour, under a new rule meant to improve safety on city streets and in parks. But a Post investigation found that many riders are ignoring limits — some flying down Sixth Avenue at 23 mph or more.

Officials say the new rule applies to all five boroughs and includes park pathways managed by the city. However, enforcing the change could be difficult, as riders are not required to register their bikes or display license plates.

E-Bike Riders Zoom Past Limits Despite New Crackdown

When reporters clocked speeds in Midtown Manhattan, delivery workers and commuters alike were seen weaving through cars and pedestrians at nearly double the allowed speed. One delivery driver told The Post that slowing to 15 mph would make earning a living nearly impossible. “You know why they go fast, right?” one pedestrian said. “The more orders they drop off, the more money they make.”

The rider admitted that his e-bike’s pedal-assist feature can reach 25 mph, and confessed he has no plans to slow down. Despite city restrictions, the investigation also found e-bikes illegally zipping along the Hudson River Greenway, where such vehicles are completely banned. Signs prohibiting motorized bikes appeared to have little effect on riders clocked at over 20 mph.

City Officials Promise ‘Education First’ Approach

Mayor Eric Adams’ office says enforcement will focus on education rather than punishment during the rollout. “This isn’t about criminalization; it’s about creating safer, fairer conditions for all New Yorkers,” Adams said in a statement. Officials plan to install new signage across popular bike corridors and issue warnings to first-time offenders before resorting to fines.

The NYPD and Department of Transportation (DOT) will also launch a citywide outreach campaign, using LinkNYC kiosks and NotifyNYC push alerts to inform riders of the rule change. Still, some council members remain skeptical. Queens Council Member Bob Holden argued that without license plates and consistent enforcement, “these riders have been ignoring traffic laws for years — and without real consequences, the danger will only grow.”

Mixed Reactions From Riders and Pedestrians

Not everyone is against the slower speeds. One e-scooter rider told reporters he supports the new limit, saying anything faster than 15 mph leaves too little reaction time to avoid potholes, pedestrians, or cars. He recalled being hit by a small bus while riding last year: “I was knocked to the ground. I thought I was done.”

Meanwhile, many pedestrians complain about e-bikes crowding sidewalks, while others blame distracted walkers. “They’re always head down on their phones,” one cyclist argued. “They step out without even looking.”

Despite a drop in e-bike fatalities in 2025 compared to the previous year — six deaths versus nine — collision rates have risen by 11%, according to the NYPD’s TrafficStat report.

Can NYC Really Slow the City That Never Sleeps?

The debate highlights a growing tension between convenience, safety, and speed in the city’s booming gig economy. With delivery demand surging, slowing down may mean lost wages for many riders. And without an easy way to track violators, the 15 mph rule could prove more symbolic than practical.

Still, the city hopes this latest initiative will create safer roads for everyone. Whether riders comply — or continue blazing through Midtown — remains to be seen.

Have you noticed e-bike riders speeding in your area? Share your thoughts and stay updated on local transportation and safety trends at NapervilleLocal.com.