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Get Moving in Millbrae: E-Bikes, Safety, and New Rules for a Greener Commute

Sustainable News Posted on May 22, 2025

Millbrae continues to pave the way toward a more sustainable and accessible future with the SPIN Electric Bike Share Program. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or simply out for a scenic ride, these Class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to get around the city. To ride, simply download the SPIN app, create an account (you must be 18 or older), add a valid credit card, and unlock a bike from one of the many stations located throughout Millbrae. 

As of April 19, 2025, SPIN’s pricing structure has been updated. Weekday rides remain $1 to unlock, with no additional per-minute charge. Weekend rides (Saturday and Sunday), however, now include a $1 unlock fee plus $0.42 per minute. This change will appear in the app, and riders must accept the updated terms before unlocking a bike. 

E-bikes are a smart alternative to cars for short local trips, helping reduce traffic congestion and air pollution while promoting healthy, active transportation. They're ideal for commuting, meeting friends, or running local errands. 

Understanding the different types of e-bikes is important for safety. Class 1 e-bikes, like those in the SPIN program, offer pedal-assist up to 20 mph. Class 2 e-bikes include a throttle function and also max out at 20 mph. Class 3 e-bikes can reach up to 28 mph with pedal-assist and are restricted to riders aged 16 and older—helmets are required. 

Whether you're on a traditional bike or an e-bike, it's essential to follow traffic laws. Cyclists must obey traffic signals, stop at stop signs, yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and driveways, and ride in the same direction as traffic. These rules help create safer streets for everyone. 

To ensure pedestrian safety, the Millbrae City Council adopted new regulations on April 8, 2025, that prohibit bicycles, electric bicycles, electronically motorized boards, scooters, and other mobility devices from being ridden on sidewalks. Enforcement of these new regulations took effect on May 8, 2025, and are part of a broader effort to make Millbrae’s shared spaces safer and more accessible for all.  

If you're new to biking or want to build confidence on the road, the Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition offers a range of free and low-cost workshops. These include hands-on classes in bike handling, repair basics, and street safety—great resources for riders aged 14 and up. 

With forward-thinking programs like SPIN and community support for cycling education, Millbrae is making it easier than ever to choose sustainable transportation. Let’s keep our city moving—safely, efficiently, and together. 


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