City Targets Online Retailers in Push to Curb Illegal E-Bike Sales

Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a new enforcement initiative on Wednesday aimed at curbing the availability of illegal electric bicycles and scooters across the five boroughs. The city has issued 42 cease-and-desist orders to major online retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy, demanding they halt the sale of devices that violate local speed and weight restrictions.

Under current city regulations, e-bikes and e-scooters are limited to a maximum speed of 15 mph. Officials stated that the targeted devices often exceed these limits, posing significant risks to public safety. Retailers have been given until August 18 to comply with the directive, after which they may face financial penalties.

The move follows a recent string of fatal accidents, including the death of a 17-year-old last week involving an e-bike capable of reaching 30 mph. According to data released by the Mayor’s office, 45 rider fatalities between 2017 and 2025 involved devices capable of speeds exceeding 25 mph, accounting for more than half of all e-bike-related deaths during that period.

City Council Speaker Julie Menin has signaled that the legislative branch is also preparing to address the issue, announcing plans to review 17 separate bills aimed at establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for micromobility. A hearing is scheduled for next month to question officials from the NYPD, the Department of Transportation, and consumer protection agencies.

The policy shift has drawn varied responses from advocacy groups. While Transportation Alternatives expressed support for restricting high-speed devices, the group’s leadership emphasized that cars and trucks remain the primary drivers of street fatalities. Meanwhile, some safety advocates are pushing for more aggressive measures, such as mandatory license plate registration for all e-bikes, a proposal that has faced criticism from cycling groups who argue it would create unnecessary barriers for commuters.

As the city navigates these competing interests, the administration faces the challenge of balancing safety mandates with the needs of the delivery workforce and the broader cycling community. The upcoming Council hearings are expected to further define the city's long-term strategy for managing the rapid growth of electric micromobility.