Free E-bike safety course at Palm Desert Civic Center
Shay Lawson
PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – With E-bikes growing in popularity, Riverside County Sheriff’s (RSO) deputies are making sure riders know how to stay safe on the road.
Paul Abrego, Deputy Sheriff, said the RSO traffic team held an e-bike safety course open to the public on Saturday, inviting riders of all ages to learn about new E-bike laws, safe riding practices and braking techniques.
“We’re open to everyone,” Abrego said. “We teach them road safety, the new E-bike laws and everything to keep safe on the road.”
Deputies demonstrated braking distances at different speeds, showing how much longer it takes to stop when riders only use a rear brake — a common mistake for distracted riders.
They also guided participants through a hands-on course that included U-turns, zigzags and “steer clear” drills — simulating how to avoid unexpected hazards on the road.
“We just want to make sure the public’s safe,” Abrego said. “Some parents buy E-bikes that are too powerful for their kids and don’t realize it. That’s why we’re out here — to educate, have fun and bring in the family.”
Abrego said RSO plans to host more E-bike safety events across the Coachella Valley ridership continues to rise.
The event happened at Palm Desert Civic Center.
Free appointments are available for 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m.
Call 760-393-3260 for more information.