Pax Thien Jolie-Pitt, the 20-year-old son of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, was reportedly hospitalized recently after experiencing an accident on his electronic bike (e-bike). The accident occurred while riding in a heavy traffic area in Los Angeles. Reports say Jolie-Pitt was not wearing a helmet and was taken to the hospital to treat a head injury and hip pain.
An e-bike, as the name suggests, has an electric motor and a rechargeable battery to help with pedaling. The motor is powered by the battery. The allure of e-bikes is the battery allows you to go faster and farther in a quicker amount of time. Some can reach speeds up to 30 mph, which can be daunting for a rider without experience.
Jolie-Pitt’s incident certainly raises alarm bells for parents and highlights the dangers of riding any type of bike without a helmet—but especially e-bikes, as they have more risks to consider. New research finds there were more than 5,000 hospitalizations in the U.S. due to e-bike injuries from 2017 to 2022, and 45,000 visits to emergency rooms over that same period of time.
Jamie McDonough, owner of Greenville, South Carolina-based bike rental company Reedy Rides, says the approved age for renting and riding e-bikes is 15 years old (and only with adult supervision). Most public bike shares require renters to be at least 16 years of age.
Even if your child is of age to ride an e-bike, experience is advised before taking one out on the road.
“Parents should ensure their child has had enough practice on a regular bike before operating an e-bike,” says John Gallucci Jr. MS, ATC, PT, DPT and CEO of JAG Physical Therapy. “If a child feels uncertain, parents should not let them ride near traffic, and rather practice in a safe area, like a park with no obstacles in the way.”
He adds while e-bikes do require a lot more skill and safety precautions, they do have some advantages to traditional bikes.
“E-bikes are a great form of exercise—especially when riding uphill—to stay outdoors and absorb vitamin D,” says Gallucci Jr. “E-bikes tend to be easier to ride further distances, so this allows children to keep up with their parents on longer rides, allowing children to have a greater sense of independence, and to grow their confidence on the road.”
Here are five product recommendations related to e-bike safety and maintenance to ensure a safer riding experience for kids:
1. High-Quality Bike Helmet
Product Recommendation: Bell Super Air R MIPS Helmet
Description: This helmet offers comprehensive protection with its Multi-Directional Impact Protection System (MIPS), which reduces rotational forces in a crash. It features a lightweight, ventilated design for comfort and an adjustable fit system to ensure it stays securely in place.
2. Bright LED Bike Lights
Product Recommendation: Cygolite Metro Pro 1100 Lumen Bike Light
Description: Visibility is crucial, especially at night. This high-powered LED light ensures riders are seen by others on the road. It offers multiple lighting modes, including a daylight visible flash, enhancing safety during both day and night rides.
3. Reflective Clothing and Accessories
Product Recommendation: Proviz Reflect360 Cycling Jacket
Description: This jacket is made from fully reflective material, making the rider highly visible in low-light conditions. It’s also waterproof and breathable, providing comfort and safety in various weather conditions.
4. Bike Horn or Bell
Product Recommendation: Knog Oi Bike Bell
Description: A good bike bell is essential for alerting pedestrians and other cyclists. The Knog Oi Bike Bell has a sleek design and provides a loud, clear sound, making it a must-have for any e-bike rider.
5. E-Bike Maintenance Kit
Product Recommendation: WOTOW 16-in-1 Multi-Function Bicycle Repair Tool Kit
Description: This compact and portable tool kit includes all the essential tools needed for basic bike maintenance and repairs. It’s perfect for keeping the e-bike in good working condition and addressing any minor issues that arise during rides.
Tips To Keep Kids Safe on E-Bikes
If you’re contemplating getting your child an e-bike or they already have one, there are some important safety guidelines to keep in mind.
Helmets are non-negotiable
There are safety rules that apply to both traditional bikes and e-bikes, and this is one of them. Always wear a helmet—no matter if you’re riding in your driveway, neighborhood sidewalks, or on the street.
“Helmets need to be inspected every year for damage or deterioration,” says McDonough. “They must fit properly, so buying one directly from a trusted bike shop should ensure you have a helmet that is the appropriate size and fit.”
It’s also advisable to wear bright colors while riding for visibility—especially at night.
Stay attentive to traffic and road hazards
For many kids who choose to ride e-bikes, it’s likely they may not have the experience necessary to handle complex traffic situations. It’s imperative they are attentive to traffic, road conditions, and managing obstacles, such as potholes, debris, or sudden changes in terrain.
“E-bike riders should know how to understand and follow road rules and signals,” McDonough confirms. “They need to be vigilant about their surroundings and able to predict and react to the movements of vehicles and pedestrians.”
Be aware: e-bikes are tougher to control than traditional bikes
E-bikes are generally heavier than traditional bikes due to the motor and battery. McDonough says the additional weight makes them more challenging to control.
“Riders should be aware of how the bike’s weight affects handling and how to use the motor’s power effectively without over-relying on it,” she notes. “Kids riding e-bikes easily could have a bike that weighs almost as much as they do.”
She goes on to say there is less reaction time for sudden stops or changes in direction, so kids need to be able to respond quickly to unexpected obstacles or situations. And the battery must be well-maintained or it becomes another risk factor.
“You must be aware of the battery’s potential for overheating or fire hazards, especially if it’s exposed to rough conditions or extreme temperatures,” explains McDonough.