When we showcased Delfast electric bikes in New York City, we were amazed by the sheer number of e-bikes already buzzing around the streets. Despite the city's strict regulations banning high-powered throttle-controlled e-bikes, they seem to be everywhere. It’s no surprise that we received countless inquiries about eBikes in NYC. This mirrors what we’ve seen on the West Coast, where cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco have more relaxed laws, making e-bikes very popular.

New York City alone has over 50,000 delivery workers using e-bikes daily. In such a densely populated area with heavy traffic, limited parking, and sky-high fuel costs, the benefits of an e-bike are clear. It’s only a matter of time before the legal system catches up and fully embraces these vehicles.

A promising sign of change is Governor Andrew Cuomo's new proposal for a sustainable "Green New Deal." The initiative aims to transition the state toward renewable energy sources, targeting 70% of its electricity from renewables by 2030. Alongside this, $1.5 billion will fund large-scale solar, wind, and energy storage projects. While California has been leading the charge in eco-friendly policies, New York’s approach seems equally ambitious. It’s logical to assume that e-bikes and other micro-mobility solutions will eventually gain legal acceptance, especially as they reduce reliance on traditional vehicles and ease congestion.

Some might argue that the authorities overlook the e-bike issue, but the facts tell a different story. Last year, the NYPD confiscated over 1,000 e-bikes, highlighting a growing challenge for both riders and law enforcement. To address this, e-bike manufacturers are finding creative ways to comply with regulations. For instance, Delfast and others allow users to adjust the bike’s speed limit through its onboard computer. This means riders can toggle between regulated and unrestricted modes depending on where they’re riding—legal limits for public roads, and higher speeds elsewhere. It’s likely this workaround will remain common practice in New York for the foreseeable future.