Boulder County, Colo. - On September 3, 2025, at approximately 9:35 a.m., deputies responded to a crash in the Safeway parking lot at 1601 Coalton Road. A juvenile riding a dirt bike was traveling too fast and collided with a pickup truck after being unable to stop in time. He was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.

This incident reflects a broader concern: more accidents and illegal riding are being reported in the community, particularly involving juveniles on e-bikes, electric dirt bikes, and gas dirt bikes. Many parents and young riders are unsure what is legal to ride, and where.

What Parents Need to Know

Electric bikes (E-bike), electric dirt bikes, and gas dirt bikes are fast, fun, and increasingly popular with kids and teens. But with higher speeds come greater risks. E-bikes and dirt bikes are heavier, harder to control, and take longer to stop than standard bicycles. Most crashes are linked to speed, and many young riders may not yet have the skills to safely handle them.

Before your child rides, make sure they can:

• Confidently ride in traffic and at intersections
• Use hand signals and avoid hazards like parked car doors
• Yield to pedestrians on shared paths
• Demonstrate safe habits on a regular bike first

Ride Smart and Stay Safe

• Always wear a helmet. E-bike crashes carry a higher risk of brain injury.
• Be smart about passengers. Only carry passengers if the e-bike has a designated seat.
• Follow traffic laws. Stop at signs, ride with traffic, and obey speed limits.
• Stay visible. Wear bright clothing and use lights when riding.

Know the Rules

Not all bikes are the same. Some models can be modified to exceed speed limits, making them harder to control and potentially illegal.

• Class 1 e-bike (pedal assist, max 20 mph) – Allowed on multi-use paths and open space trails.
• Class 2 e-bike (pedal assist + throttle, max 20 mph) – Allowed on multi-use paths; not recommended for children under 16.
• Class 3 e-bike (pedal assist, max 28 mph) – Restricted to roads and bike lanes. Operators must be 16+, helmets are required under 18, and a speedometer must be installed.
• Electric motorcycles and dirt bikes – Classified as motorized vehicles and require a motorcycle endorsement, registration, license plates, and insurance when used on public roads. They are not permitted on sidewalks or multi-use trails.

Community Reminder

“Fast and powerful bikes can be exciting, but they also carry serious risks,” Sergeant Dave Salaman with the Sheriff’s Office added. “We encourage parents to talk with their children, understand the laws, and make sure young riders are ready before letting them hit the road.”

For more information, visit:

• Town of Superior: E-Bike Safety – What Parents Need to Know
• BVSD Safe Routes E-Bike Safety Resources

The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office and Mountain View Fire Rescue responded to the September 3 incident. Case number: 25-04284.

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/s/ Carrie Haverfield, Sr. Communications Specialist