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HBPD's Behind-the-Handlebar Training: A Safety Move for Young E-Bike Riders

Update Why E-Bike Safety Training is Essential for Young Riders As we navigate through the increasing popularity of electric bicycles among children, the necessity for safety training has become glaringly evident. With speeds exceeding those of traditional bicycles, e-bikes present a different set of challenges for young riders. Recent statistics point to a troubling trend: in 2024 alone, the Huntington Beach Police Department (HBPD) reported over 147 e-bike crashes, a figure that has already been surpassed in the first half of 2025. Alarmingly, more than half of these incidents involved individuals under 18 years old. The Rise of E-Bikes and the Need for Safety E-bikes offer young riders incredible freedom, allowing them to travel further and faster than ever before. However, this newfound independence comes with significant risks, especially when riders are not adequately trained. With a staggering increase in e-bike-related trauma injuries rising by 1,500% since 2019 according to Children's Hospital of Orange County, the call for structured safety courses becomes all the more urgent. Police-led training programs, like the innovative initiative launched by the HBPD, are designed to equip children with the skills they need to navigate roads safely. Inside the E-Bike Training Program The e-bike safety program developed by HBPD is believed to be a first of its kind in the nation and consists of a comprehensive 70-minute course. Young riders, along with their parents, engage in hands-on training to build vital skills such as braking techniques and road safety tactics. Under the guidance of police instructors, participants progress through five interactive stations, each simulating real-world situations. Encouraging Parental Participation One unique aspect of this program is its requirement for parents to participate alongside their children. This approach reinforces safety techniques at home, fostering a culture of safe riding within families. According to Sgt. Mike Thomas, the program's director, the focus is not merely on passing or failing; rather, it’s about developing a foundational understanding of how to safely operate an e-bike. “We want to see that they’re receptive to the training,” he emphasized during the launch. A Growing Movement Towards Safer Riding As e-bike incidents continue to rise, it is clear that more needs to be done beyond just the initiation of these training programs. The HBPD's initiative is currently optional for riders without citations, but the increasing number of accidents may accelerate the necessity of making this training a requirement for all young e-bike riders. The goal is simple: to ensure that when children step onto their e-bikes, they are empowered with knowledge and skills to navigate their surroundings safely. The Importance of Community Awareness The HBPD's initiative also serves as a call to action for the community. Awareness and education can dramatically change the current trends of e-bike misuse among youth. Community programs and local workshops can help spread the word about the risks associated with e-bikes and the importance of safety training. It’s not just a concern for parents, but for the entire community to ensure that young riders are protected. In Conclusion: The Road Ahead The rise of e-bikes has revolutionized how children travel, granting them quick mobility while posing serious risks. As we move forward, initiatives like the one launched by the HBPD provide a roadmap for fostering a culture of safety among young riders. Engaging in these training programs not only benefits individual cyclists but also contributes to safer neighborhoods. It’s time for parents and guardians to take an active role in educating their children about road safety to mitigate risks in this evolving biking landscape.