E-bike popularity surges in Capital Region, raising safety and consumer concerns

ALBANY, N.Y. (WNYT)- With warmer weather arriving in the Capital Region, more cyclists are hitting local trails — and an increasing number are doing so on e-bikes.

Related: 13Investigates: E-Bike safety

The rise in popularity has been noticeable along the Helderberg-Hudson Rail Trail, where riders are taking advantage of the convenience and ease that e-bikes provide. But as interest grows, so do concerns about safety and consumer protection.

For Guilderland residents Dave and Tammy Corey, spring weather signals the start of biking season.

“Once the spring hits with this weather as much as we can,” Dave Corey stated.

The couple has been riding hybrid bikes for about 15 years, but they are now considering switching to e-bikes to expand their range.

“They just opened up a rail trail up north, it goes from Placid to Tupper Lake. It’s 33 miles, 34 miles,” Corey stated. “It would be nice to be able to go further to really explore those places… if you receive tired, you receive the pedal assist with the e-bike part of it. It would just open up a new world for us.”

That growing interest is also being felt at Steiner’s Sports, where store manager Bryce Vallie states demand has surged. The shop currently carries between 45 and 50 e-bikes across its three locations — a significant portion of its inventory.

“They’ve grown in popularity tremfinishously I would state,” Vallie stated.

While sales are rising, Vallie emphasized the importance of purchasing e-bikes from reputable brands and local retailers, rather than unknown online sellers.

“You have great warranty, you have great service ability of the bikes. When you’re just purchaseing online, there’s not many places to go … and have them worked on,” Vallie stated. He added that established brands meet safety standards and reduce risks such as battery-related issues.

Safety concerns extfinish beyond the bikes themselves. Advocates state infrastructure has not kept pace with the growing number of riders.

James Rath, executive director of Capital Streets, states more investment is requireded to ensure safer roads for cyclists.

“So now in 2026, it’s time to build dedicated bike infrastructure that’s safe and protected from rapid-shifting motor vehicles that weigh thousands and thousands of pounds,” Rath stated. “I consider it’s time for municipalities, especially in state DOT, to invest in this infrastructure to build sure that people can receive from A to B safely.”

As e-bike apply continues to rise, discussions around regulation and safety are also gaining attention. A public forum scheduled in Glens Falls on Wednesday will focus on current laws, safety concerns, and the future of e-bike apply in the region.