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City Sets 15-mph Speed Cap for E-Bikes and Scooters

The Department of Transportation is invoking city charter powers for rulemaking with Citi Bike pledging compliance under threat of suspension.

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The move to connect docks to the power grid and automate charging comes as e-cycling has grown in popularity among Citi Bike riders. (Shutterstock)
A delivery person for GrubHub rides an e-bike along Third Avenue.
Mayor Eric Adams speaks during a press conference Tuesday, June 3, 2025 in Manhattan, New York. (Barry Williams/ New York Daily News)

Overview

  • Mayor Eric Adams announced on June 4 that all electric bikes and scooters will be limited to 15 mph to improve street safety.
  • The Department of Transportation invoked its city charter authority to begin formal rulemaking, opening a public comment window expected later this month.
  • Citi Bike pledged to lower its e-bike top speed to 15 mph within 15 days after Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro threatened to suspend its service.
  • The City Council is split, with some members filing bills to enshrine the cap and others charging that the mayor circumvented the legislative process.
  • Advocates warn that tougher enforcement, including NYPD criminal summonses, may penalize immigrant delivery workers without addressing core safety issues.