IPMBA E-Bike Training Module Debuts!

by IPMBA

Contrary to popular belief, e-Bikes are not new; nor are they new to the public safety sector.  As early as 2001, e-Bikes started appearing the IPMBA Conference Exhibit Hall.  They were not well-received.  This was in large part because the technology at the time resulted in very heavy, difficult to maneuver, easily damaged bicycles with limited battery range.  As technology improved, the bikes and batteries got lighter and the models sleeker, but the technology was still expensive, putting e-Bikes into the “budget-breaker” category for most public safety agencies.  While they were deemed “fun to ride” by at least some IPMBA members, they were not viewed as a practical choice for patrol.

All that has changed.  As is the case with most technology, e-Bike electronics have gotten smaller, lighter, more powerful, and less expensive.  Public safety agencies of all types are starting to realize that there are benefits associated with adding e-Bikes to their fleets.  While they are not likely to replace conventional bicycles altogether, they have been recognized as yet another tool in the public safety cyclist’s toolbox. 

While e-Bikes are similar to conventional bicycles in many respects, they are heavier, less maneuverable, and capable of achieving higher speeds.  Therefore, specialized training is essential to minimize the risk of injury and/or property damage. 

As the entity that sets the standards for public safety cycling training and operations, IPMBA has developed an e-Bike Training Module that is available for purchase by active IPMBA Instructors through the IPMBA website. 

The IPMBA e-Bike Training Module represents the collective effort of a group of IPMBA Instructors and members who dedicated countless hours to ensure that instructors are equipped with the best possible educational resources.  Special thanks to Clint Sandusky, who spearheaded the effort to build the module, Eric Barnes and Robert Hatcher for creating and refining the PowerPoint presentations, the Bentonville (AR) and Lehigh University (PA) Police Departments for pilot testing it, and e-Bike Task Force chairperson Brian Gillman for overseeing the initiative.   

The IPMBA e-Bike Training Module is intended for public safety cyclists who have already successfully completed the applicable IPMBA Public Safety Cycling Course.  The purpose is to transition fundamental public safety cycling skills from conventional bicycles to e-Bikes, not teach the fundamentals.  In keeping with best practices, IPMBA recommends that public safety cyclists master the necessary skills on conventional bicycles prior to being issued e-Bikes, and that they be required to complete this training module prior to riding e-Bikes on duty.  The training module is not to be used to teach riders how to operate out-of-class electric vehicles (OCEVs) that exceed the applicable maximum legal speed limit for electric-assisted bicycles. 

This IPMBA E-Bike Training Module includes a “Read Me First” document, a Curriculum Packet, IPMBA E-Bike Training Module lesson plans, PowerPoint® presentations, a combination roster and skills assessment check-off sheet, and the IPMBA Position Statement on the Use of E-Bikes for Public Safety.  There are no video presentations included with this training module. 

Because this is not a certificate-level course, IPMBA will not issue certificates to those who complete this Training Module.  Certificates of completion may be issued by the instructor, agency, or training facility. 

On a final and very important note, it is the instructor’s responsibility to become familiar with e-Bikes and their operation, differences, advantages, and disadvantages.  Those with little or no experience with e-Bikes are advised and encouraged to schedule demos and test rides through local bicycle shops, attend industry demo days, and participate in e-Bike training sessions offered at the annual IPMBA Conference. 

We also recommend that you visit the extensive video library available on the Electric Mountain Bike Network (EMBN) YouTube channel and review the other resources listed on IPMBA’s e-Bike Resource Page. 

Information about how to purchase the e-Bike Training Module will be provided to instructors via email and on the Training Materials & Merchandise page (http://ipmba.org/resources/merchandise) on the IPMBA website.  Please email IPMBA at info@ipmba.org with questions. 

(c) 2020 IPMBA.  This article appeared in the 2020 Conference Retrospective issue of IPMBA News. 

Photo courtesy Lehigh University (PA) Police Department.

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