E-Bike Injuries Rising Across Riverside County as Officials Urge Riders to Stay Safe

E-bike safety is becoming a growing concern across Riverside County as health officials report a significant increase in injuries involving electric bicycle riders.

The Riverside University Health System says e-bike injuries have quadrupled, based on emergency department data collected from hospitals across the county between January 2021 and March 2026 through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Syndromic Surveillance Program.

As e-bikes continue to grow in popularity, safety experts say choosing the right bike and using it responsibly are critical.

Don Sawyer, operating manager at TriBike, says some riders, especially younger users, are purchasing bikes that exceed legal limits.

“Parents come in to buy bikes for kids and these kids all want ones that are illegal out-of-class bikes,” Sawyer said. “They have huge electric motor systems on them that allow them to do 40 to 60 miles an hour.”

Sawyer says some riders are also modifying e-bikes purchased online to increase their speed, creating additional safety risks.

“Now you’re taking a bike that doesn’t have a brake system. It’s not a motorcycle. It has bicycle brakes on it,” Sawyer said. “That’s where the crashes and accidents are starting to come from.”

Even riders using legal e-bikes are encouraged to take precautions. Brett Leonard, trauma program manager and registered nurse, says wearing the right helmet is one of the most important safety steps.

“Make sure you’re wearing a helmet that is properly rated for the speed that you’re going to be traveling,” Leonard said.

Experts also recommend following traffic laws, staying aware of vehicles and pedestrians, and replacing helmets after a major impact, repeated drops, or damage.

Health officials say slowing down and taking basic safety precautions can help prevent serious injuries as more people choose e-bikes for transportation and recreation.

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