Bicyclists and electric bike riders in Modesto could soon face fines of up to $5,000, misdemeanor charges and the potential seizure of their rides under sweeping new regulations unanimously advanced by the City Council on Tuesday night.
The council voted 6-0 on Oct. 13 to introduce an ordinance overhauling the city’s bicycle regulations, establishing new restrictions on dangerous riding, speeding on recreational trails and organized street takeovers involving bicycles and electric transportation devices.
The proposal also would allow police to impound bicycles and certain electric vehicles for up to 30 days and impose separate $2,000 penalties on parents or guardians who knowingly permit their children to violate the regulations…