E-bikes are a popular way to get around, but the City of Parksville says it is experiencing significant damage and vandalism caused by a few e-bike and electric motorbike riders who are using their rides’ torque to rip up the city’s parks and trails.
According to a news release by the city, the new Maple Glen trail worksite was damaged last week.
“This senseless vandalism is also an issue in the Parksville Community Park where riders are ripping up turf, riding through gardens and vegetated areas not meant for any bicycle,” the release said.
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This same damage has been caused to trails and off trail areas in the Parksville Wetlands and Springwood Park, according to the city.
The city’s bylaw compliance officers, security patrols and the RCMP have been made aware of the damage.
“We are also concerned e-bikes are being ridden at dangerous speeds in pedestrian areas,” the release said. “We encourage residents to report damage or riders tearing up trails to the RCMP.”
— NEWS Staff