Some electric bicycles not authorised for use in public spaces

I agree with the writer’s observation in the letter “Govt should look into dangers of modified electric bicycles” (Sept 3). Users of electric bicycles seem to zoom around without much consideration for others using pavements in the heartlands.

Footpaths are primarily for pedestrians. Cyclists could use them if they exercise care, though, and a series of campaigns by the Land Transport Authority, the police and town councils appears to have borne fruit.

Most cyclists seem to have discarded their boorish ways on pavements. Gone are the incessant ringing of bells and clanking of modified brakes that scare the daylights out of pedestrians.

In fact, I hear cyclists saying “Thank you” and “Sorry” when pedestrians step aside to let them pass. The same cannot be said of users of electric bicycles; pedestrians are often stunned momentarily when one appears suddenly before them.

It appears also that many electric bicycles are not authorised for use in public spaces. The authority should indeed look into the matter, as such bicycles seem to be proliferating in the heartlands.