The city of Durango prohibits motorized traffic on city trails and should continue to do so.
The multi-use trails are already congested with a variety of leisurely users – pedestrians, skateboarders, self-pedaling bicyclists, child strollers and carriages, dog walkers and scooters.
Because these people travel at minimal rates of speed, the problems of congestion and conflicts are solvable. Such would not be the case if electric bikes are allowed on city trails.
Current models of electric bikes can travel up to speeds of 20 to 28 mph, and on average weigh 44 pounds compared to 28 pounds for the average bike. The average e-bike travels at a speed of 14 mph compared to the average speed of 8.7 mph for a regular pedal bike, according to information presented at a city recreation meeting.
Not to be overlooked is the use of city trails for quiet use and exercise. Turning our natural areas into roadways will rob our residents and tourists of an amenity of natural land that’s currently accessible to people of all ages.
The city is adding bike lanes to city streets that will allow e-bike riders to travel safely. Streets are where e-bikes belong.
Chris Paulson
Durango
