New York City Mayor Eric Adams has proposed a 15 mph (24 km/h) speed limit for e-bikes in response to growing public concern over safety risks posed by fast-moving electric bicycles, particularly in areas shared with pedestrians. The proposed cap aims to curb accidents as the city’s electric mobility sector—especially for deliveries—continues to expand rapidly.
The new limit would bring NYC in line with European Union standards, where e-bikes are typically capped at 15.5 mph (25 km/h) and limited to 250-watt motors.
I’ve heard it in every neighborhood: New Yorkers are worried about e-bikes flying by and putting their families and children at risk.
Enough is enough.
We will soon be implementing a 15-MPH speed limit on e-bikes, so pedestrians AND riders can be safe on our streets. pic.twitter.com/VMy9Xiy3T2— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) June 5, 2025
However, Adams has not called for any power restrictions. While the reduced speed may be enforceable on newly sold e-bikes, questions remain about how the rule would apply to the thousands of existing bikes already in use.
Adams also outlined plans for additional safety measures in city parks and renewed his push for a licensing system for delivery operators. This initiative, part of the city’s Department of Sustainable Delivery, has been pending in the City Council for nine months.
Meanwhile, his administration has expanded bike infrastructure, adding nearly 88 miles (142 km) of new protected lanes and upgrading another 20 miles (32 km) of existing routes to support safer cycling in the city.