Electric assisted bicycles and scooters are becoming a common sight on local streets.

 

August 1, 2006 

 

Electric assisted bicycles and scooters are becoming a common sight on local streets.


Bertha Wiebe of the Source by Circuit City in Altona says they sold their first shipment within 36 hours of arrival.


She attributes their popularity to the rising cost of fuel.


Wiebe says even though the bikes are small drivers need to be careful.


She adds to operate one you must wear a helmet and be 14 years of age.


However the town of Altona is looking at creating a bylaw requiring drivers be 16 years old with a driver's license or 18 years old without one.


The bikes can reach speeds of just over 39 km/h and travel up to 100 km on a single battery.