Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

A September 2026 University of Michigan poll found that many parents of children ages 11–18 felt uncertain about e-bike types and where riders should go. It measured parents’ own reported familiarity and opinions—not whether they passed a knowledge test or how often e-bike injuries happen. The results point to practical questions for families: what kind of e-bike a child is using, what local rules apply, and whether the child can ride it responsibly.

What did the poll find about parents’ e-bike knowledge?

In the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, 6% of surveyed parents said they were very informed about different types of e-bikes, 27% said somewhat informed, and 67% said they were not informed. Asked where e-bikes are supposed to be ridden, 45% said they did not know.

Among parents who selected a location, 29% chose a bike lane, 11% a sidewalk, 10% the edge of the road, and 5% the lane with cars. These answers show uncertainty and differing beliefs; the poll does not establish one universal riding rule. Where an e-bike may be ridden depends on applicable local law and rules for the specific path or road.

How the survey was conducted—and what it cannot show

Ipsos Public Affairs conducted the web-based survey for C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital in July 2026. The findings discussed here are based on responses from 1,234 parents with at least one child ages 11–18 in their household. Respondents came from Ipsos’s KnowledgePanel, a randomly selected, stratified panel; results were weighted to reflect U.S. Census Bureau population figures. The report gives a 69% completion rate among contacted panel members and a margin of error of ±1 to 3 percentage points.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
ILM Adult Bike Helmet with LED Front Back Light Bicycle Helmets E3-10L(Matte Black, Large/X-Large)
  • Excellent Safety Protection: Certified by ASTM, CPSC, CE, and EN1078. The one-piece structure combines EPS and PC shells to ensure better shock absorption and provide safer protection. The e bike helmet adult is protective and ideal for urban commuting, cycling, skateboarding; also suitable for city, road, electric, trek bike and etc.
  • Highly Visible: This ebike helmet designed with USB rechargeable front and rear light. While the front lights provide lighting, the rear lights provide higher visibility for the vehicles or people behind you, providing better protection on the city streets; Features 3 lighting modes, the bike helmet with light can be easily changed lighting modes from Steady into Flashing or Blinking by simple clicks button.
  • Cool Riding: 10 strategically placed vents actively capture cool airflow through the front vents and push the hot air out through the rear cooling channels to reduce overheating and keep you cool on your long rides; The electric bike helmets are lightweight without much pressure on your head even for a longer duration of wearing.
  • Size Adjustment System: Detachable tinted lens, blocks UV rays/dust/sand, electric scooter helmet is eyeglass friendly Size adjuster meets the requirements of most cyclists head sizes.
  • Removable&Washable Lining: The inner lining is made of breathable mesh fabric to keep you dry while riding. In addition, Electronic smart bike helmet can't be 100% guaranteed to work properly. If there is any problem with the light, please contact us. We will give you a proper solution.

The figures are parent-reported responses from this survey. They do not objectively test what each respondent knows, establish why parents answered as they did, or measure e-bike injury rates. The poll authors also state that its findings do not represent the opinions of the University of Michigan. Read the C.S. Mott poll report and methods.

Why e-bikes can be hard to classify

The report describes the commonly used three-class framework. The classes distinguish how the motor works and the maximum speed at which it provides assistance:

Rank #2
Retrospec Dakota Protective Bike Helmet, Skateboard, Scooter, Adults/Youth
  • MULTI-SPORT PROTECTION: This versatile adult skate helmet works for BMX, skating, scooters, and bikes - one reliable helmet for all your action sports adventures and thrills
  • IMPACT RESISTANT: Durable ABS shell with shock-absorbing EPS foam keeps you safe during spills — a men's bike helmet built to handle whatever you throw at it
  • COOL AIRFLOW: Ten strategically placed vents create 360-degree ventilation to keep your head cool and comfortable during intense rides - no more overheating or stuffiness
  • EASY MAINTENANCE: Removable, washable interior padding wicks moisture and stays fresh, adult bicycle helmets that are simple to clean and maintain ride after ride
  • SIZE RANGE: 3 sizes to fit most adult riders - adjustable design accommodates different head circumferences for secure, comfortable protection. Small (51-54cm), Medium (54-57cm) & Large (57-60cm).
Class Motor operation Maximum assisted speed
Class 1 Assistance while the rider pedals 20 mph
Class 2 A throttle can propel the bike without pedaling 20 mph
Class 3 Assistance while the rider pedals 28 mph

These are the classes described in the poll report, not a complete statement of the law in every jurisdiction. Some states and communities set minimum ages for particular classes, and local access rules can differ. Check the rules where the bike will be ridden rather than assuming that the same age or route restrictions apply everywhere.

What parents said about benefits and concerns

Parents saw practical and recreational reasons a child might use an e-bike. In the poll, 50% identified transportation when a car is unavailable, 49% cited fun, 45% said e-bikes can get children outside and active, 35% pointed to greater freedom for teens to travel, and 15% said a younger child might keep up with parents or older children.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
BOTHLIKE Bike Helmet Adult for Men, Lightweight Ebike Helmet
  • EXCELLELENT SAFETY AND PROTECTION: The adult bike helmet is made of high-strength, impact-resistant materials, with a strong PC outer layer, a high-density EPS foam middle layer, and a thick, removable inner liner. It can effectively absorb and disperse the impact energy during riding.
  • VENTILATED AND BREATHABLE DESIGN: The bike helmet has 21 air vents for ventilation and heat dissipation to keep your head dry and comfortable even when riding for long periods of time or in hot weather, reducing the feeling of stifling heat and enhancing the riding experience.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMFORTABLE: Using advanced lightweight materials and technology, and this helmet sturdy yet weighs only 10¼ ounces.the helmet has comfortable padding and an adjusting dial that allows the helmet to fit heads from 22.8 to 24.4 inches.
  • VERSATILITY AND CONVENIENCE(LED light /magnetic goggles): Modern cycling helmets integrate a variety of practical features, such as magnetic goggles that provide shade and adapt to different weather conditions, and a built-in LED taillight that improves visibility at night or in low-light environments to ensure safe cycling.
  • PERSONALIZED STYLE DESIGN: Adult ebike/ bicycle helmets are no longer limited to functionality, incorporating fashionable design elements and offering 3 color options to meet the aesthetic needs of different cyclists. Whether it's for professional competition or leisure trips, you can find a helmet that matches your personal style.

Concerns were also common: 82% named injury to the rider, 62% injury to pedestrians, 56% drivers not used to e-bikes on the road, 36% batteries catching fire while charging, and 30% e-bikes left on a road or sidewalk. These percentages describe concerns reported by parents; they are not estimates of how often those events occur.

Fifty-five percent said they often see e-bikes in their community, while 30% said occasionally and 15% never. Thirty-five percent reported that someone in their family had ridden one. Reported riders included a teen (20%), young adult (12%), pre-teen (8%), or parent (19%); those groups can overlap because a family may include several riders.

Rank #4
Sale
OUMURS Full Face Dirt Bike Helmet DOT Approved, Adult ATV Motocross Helmet
  • Size - OUMURS Dirt Bike Helmet include Adult-M (570 - 580 mm / 22-1/2" - 22-7/8" ); Adult-L (590 - 600 mm / 23-1/4" - 23-5/8"); Adult-XL (610 - 620 mm / 24" - 24-3/8" ); Adult-XXL (620 - 630 mm / 24-3/8" - 24-3/4" )
  • Safe and Reliable - The OUMURS Dirt Bike Helmet meets DOT FMVSS-218 Safety Standards,made of high quality ABS shell and EPS linings provide security for your driving, it’s a good choice for you as a dirt bike helmet or adult ATV helmet
  • With Goggles Gloves and Mask - OUMURS Dirt Bike Helmet include the goggles, gloves and mask which you need to in driving. Put on the accessory equipment, windproof and UV resistant, can resist the interference of the sun and give you a more clear and wide vision in riding
  • Multiple Air Vents Design - The adult ATV helmet have multiple air vents, make fresh air keep entering the helmet, You can have a good riding experience even in hot summer. The optimized vent reduces the wind noise and can ride more quietly with this adult ATV helmet
  • Double D Ring Design - OUMURS motorcycle helmet with double D ring design, easy to wear and wear firmly. It will not fall off even if it is impacted by external forces, effectively protecting your safety

How parents compared e-bike danger with other activities

Parents were asked how dangerous e-bikes seemed for a typical teen compared with other activities. Their answers reflect perceived relative safety, not measured differences in injury probability.

Compared with E-bikes more dangerous E-bikes safer About the same
Regular bikes 65% 3% 32%
Driving a car 36% 20% 44%
Skateboarding 30% 24% 46%
Off-roading or ATVs 13% 37% 50%
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

What the findings mean when deciding whether a child is ready

A legal minimum age, where one exists, is only one consideration. The poll report says parents should weigh a child’s experience, judgment, maturity, and ability to follow traffic and safety rules. Motor operation and assisted speed matter too: a bike that can maintain higher assisted speeds or move under throttle may call for different skills and judgment than a conventional bicycle.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Sale
Schwinn Thrasher Helmet for Adults, Black, Size 58 - 62 cm, for Riders Ages 14+, Lightweight Microshell, Adjustable Dial and Straps, Interior Padding, 20 Air Vents, Removable Visor, Adult Bike Helmet
  • ADULT BIKE HELMET: Designed for fitness and recreational rides, this sporty bicycle helmet fits riders ages 14+ with head circumferences from 58 - 62 cm. Wherever the road leads, you’re covered.
  • THE PERFECT, SECURE FIT: The adjustable dial retention system offers a snug, secure fit with just a twist, while side and chin straps fine-tune the fit for all-day comfort and stability. Sun protection is a snap with an easily removable visor.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMFORTABLE: This mens and womens helmet features microshell construction for lightweight durability, while full-coverage padding surrounds the head in 360° comfort and can be removed and washed.
  • READY TO GO THE EXTRA MILE: Complies with U.S. CPSC Safety Standard for Bicycle Helmets for Persons Age 1 and Older (Extended Head Coverage). Twenty air vents keep you cool – this Schwinn bike helmet is ready for the adventure.
  • TRUSTED SCHWINN QUALITY: Schwinn is the original American bike brand. We’ve spent over 130 years building the bicycle industry into what it is today, and we’re not done yet. Each product is designed in Madison, WI.

The report identifies several practical risk considerations: speed can reduce the time a rider has to react; a bike that is too large or heavy can be difficult to control; riding without a helmet, weaving through traffic, or passing close to pedestrians can add risk. Dedicated bike lanes may not be available everywhere, which can make route decisions less straightforward.

  • Identify the bike’s class and make sure the child understands whether it has a throttle and how its assistance works.
  • Check the age, route, and equipment rules that apply in the specific state or community and on the planned route.
  • Choose a bike the child can handle comfortably, and set expectations for speed, predictable riding, and giving pedestrians space.
  • Agree on routes and rules for distractions, lights, and reflective gear before riding.
  • Use a properly fitted helmet. In the poll, 80% of parents strongly supported helmet requirements, but that support figure is not itself a legal requirement.

What policies did parents support?

Parents expressed support for several proposed safety measures: 80% strongly supported helmet requirements, 68% supported labels showing minimum ages for different e-bike types, 63% supported clearer markings for where to ride, 59% supported an age-18 requirement for the most powerful e-bikes, and 57% supported required safety training. Eleven percent strongly supported a complete e-bike ban. These are reported opinions, not enacted rules or evidence that any policy reduces injuries.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.