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Neighbor Complained About My eBike - Now What?

by MikeT_Biker2 months ago

This is kind of a weird situation. I've been riding my eBike (Rad Power RadRover 6) around my neighborhood for the past six months without any issues. Yesterday, my neighbor knocked on my door and complained that my eBike is "too loud" and "sounds like a motorcycle."

I was honestly shocked because I don't think my bike is particularly loud. It's a 750W hub motor and yeah, there's some motor noise, but it's nowhere near as loud as a gas-powered anything. I've ridden past people on the sidewalk and they don't even turn their heads.

My neighbor said he can hear me coming down the street from inside his house and it's disturbing his work-from-home setup. He asked me to "find another route" or "ride it somewhere else."

Here's the thing - this is a public street in a residential neighborhood. I'm not speeding, I'm following all traffic laws, and I'm not riding at weird hours (usually between 9am-6pm). I don't think I'm doing anything wrong, but I also don't want to be a jerk neighbor.

Has anyone else dealt with eBike complaints from neighbors? Is my bike actually too loud and I just don't notice it? Should I try to accommodate him or just keep riding my normal route?

For context, the neighborhood has plenty of cars, lawn mowers, leaf blowers, etc. I don't understand why my eBike is the problem.

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3 replies

3 Replies

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MartinezeBike2 months ago

Your neighbor is being ridiculous. eBikes are legal vehicles and you have every right to park it there. That said, maybe offer to show them how quiet and safe it actually is? Sometimes people fear what they don't understand. Kill them with kindness first, then cite local ordinances if needed.

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ChenCyclist2 months ago

Check your HOA rules or lease agreement first to make sure you're in the clear legally. Then politely but firmly stand your ground. eBikes are becoming mainstream and your neighbor needs to get with the times. Document everything in case it escalates.

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ChrisBikes936 days ago

That's a tough one, but honestly, a 750W hub motor RadRover isn't usually "motorcycle loud." It's more likely your neighbor is sensitive to any new or unfamiliar sound in their routine, especially if they're focused on work. I'd suggest recording your bike from a distance (maybe have a friend do it) to get an objective listen, then perhaps offer to let your neighbor hear it up close so they can truly compare it to other neighborhood noises.

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