Electric bikes and scooters are increasingly popular in Canada, from kids riding in neighborhoods to food delivery drivers and thrill-seekers on highways. A recent investigation by Marketplace revealed that some stores are selling these vehicles with speeds exceeding provincial limits and age recommendations below regulations.
Most provinces restrict e-bikes and e-scooters to 32 km/h or less, with varying age limits from 12 to 18. However, enforcement is primarily left to local police as injuries from these vehicles rise annually, prompting calls for consistent nationwide rules and better enforcement.
During undercover visits to major stores in the Greater Toronto Area, including Amego, Emmo, EZbike, Best Buy, Canadian Tire, and Costco, journalists found that many stores sold e-bikes and e-scooters violating Ontario’s speed and age limits.
Of the 12 stores visited, six suggested how to bypass speed limits, while 10 stores sold vehicles exceeding Ontario regulations. Although stores can legally sell these products, experts warn of the dangers posed by vehicles beyond legal limits.
According to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, e-scooter-related hospitalizations for children under 15 have significantly increased in recent years, indicating a concerning trend in injuries. The Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program reported 10 child fatalities linked to e-scooters and e-bikes in 2025.
Sales of e-bikes and e-scooters have surged in Canada, with over 372,000 e-bikes and 76,000 e-scooters sold this year alone. However, concerns are growing as improper use and misleading marketing target children, risking their safety.
Parents, medical professionals, and officials advocate for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent accidents and injuries caused by e-bikes and e-scooters. The federal government, along with provincial authorities, is urged to prioritize safety and address the growing risks associated with these popular electric rides.