SOUTH LYON, MICH. ~ South Lyon police are increasing enforcement and education efforts as e‑bike accidents rise among teen riders, Police Chief Bonnie Unruh said.
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July 24, 2026 ~ Police Chief of the South Lyon Police Department Bonnie Unruh talks about South Lyon imposing restrictions on e-bikes in their downtown area and putting speed limits on their bike trails to limit crashes.
E-bikes are classified into three categories under Michigan law, each with specific speed and operational rules. Only Class 3 riders are required to be at least 14 years old.
As e-bikes rise in popularity among teens, both street and sidewalk accidents have risen too. Many teen operators lack formal training in traffic rules, according to police, leading to unsafe operation on streets and sidewalks. Chief Unruh said two accidents in April 2025 prompted South Lyon City Council to seek regulations.
Challenges facing South Lyon officers in enforcing e-bike safety include limited resources and the lack of community education. Chief Unruh said summer construction has created more accident-prone areas, making it difficult to patrol each location. The department is focused on educating teens and parents about the rules and risks of e-bikes. Officers visited middle schools to raise awareness and answer students’ questions.
South Lyon police have begun contacting parents when minors are stopped for riding in prohibited areas. This, Chief Unruh said, has led to “a lot less e-bike where they’re not supposed to be.” Additional enforcement efforts in South Lyon include speed limits and restrictions in crowded areas.
