I have many sources for safety information, not just for vehicles, but also for bicyclists and pedestrians. I recently received notification of an e-bike online training course to help master new skills, learn safety procedures and level up your riding technique.

The Franklin County Traffic Safety Board has discussed the problems associated with e-bikes and e-scooters several times at its monthly meetings. The proliferation of these battery-powered bikes and scooters has resulted in many riders of all ages thinking they can just hop on an e-bike and ride it like a regular bike. Furthermore, most riders either are not aware of the vehicle and traffic laws that are applicable to e-bikes, or they choose not to obey them — likely a little of both.

I have not taken the course (I don’t have an e-bike) and you should know that there is a $36 fee for taking it online. Thus, I cannot advise as to the quality of the course, but if you go to the website, which is: ebikecourse.com, you can decide for yourself if it is worthwhile. The e-mail came to me from the “PeopleForBikes” organization, which I do trust.

According to the information provided for the course, you can learn the best practices for safe and responsible e-bike riding and the “Readiness Checklist” to help determine if your children are ready to ride. Remember: in NYS, no one under 16 years can legally ride an e-bike or an e-scooter.

The online, self-paced education program was developed to help riders understand how to operate the powered bicycles in a safe and responsible manner. It covers essential topics such as e-bike operation, traffic awareness and safe riding strategies.

The course is designed for new e-bike riders looking to learn the basics and experienced cyclists transitioning to e-bikes. It includes rules of the road, safe riding strategies, personal protective gear, skill-building exercises and understanding e-bike types and features.

The course can be completed in about two hours, and you can proceed at your own pace.