Josh Hunter has been organizing night rides on personal electric vehicles (PEVs) in Edmonton for five years. Recently, a diverse mix of electric-powered scooters, bicycles, skateboards, and unicycles gathered at the Alberta Legislature grounds for an early season tour. While PEVs are primarily seen as cost-effective and eco-friendly transportation for commuters, they are gaining popularity as a social leisure activity in Canadian cities after dark.
Although PEV Edmonton’s official season doesn’t start until June, a group of enthusiastic riders, attracted by the warm weather and clear skies, embarked on an after-dark journey through Edmonton’s river valley pathways and streets. Describing the group as a modern-day biker gang, Hunter humorously noted that participants of all ages are welcome as long as they have a personal electric vehicle and a helmet, which is strictly enforced.
During the ride, many riders showcased customized PEVs with vibrant lights and mirrors, proudly highlighting the power of their motors. Notably, not all individuals spotted on PEVs in Edmonton were enthusiasts, with several groups seen leisurely exploring the city’s core on rental e-scooters from Lime, Neuron, and Bird.
Among the riders were Habib Baalbaki and Zeinab Awada, a newly married couple enjoying a scooter date night. Baalbaki likened the experience to “walking on steroids,” expressing excitement during his first e-scooter ride. Meanwhile, Kyson Fitzner, riding with friends, shared his thrill for nighttime cruising and demonstrated some daring moves, including jumping a curb for added excitement.
Companies operating rental e-scooter and e-bike programs in Canada reported a surge in ridership during evenings and weekends. Bird’s Anastasia Rewers-Kusiak noted increased activity from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and on weekends, while Neuron’s Isaac Ransom highlighted that a significant portion of trips occur during the nighttime economy, especially for recreational purposes.
In cities like Ottawa, Vancouver, and Halifax, similar groups engage in after-hours e-vehicle rides, drawing attention from both motorists and pedestrians. Participants like Kara Dejong and Trevor Neufeld emphasized the passion and joy they find in these rides, with Neufeld investing significantly in his PEV for enhanced performance.
However, with the rising popularity of PEVs, concerns about safety have surfaced. Public health data revealed a notable increase in e-scooter-related injuries across Canada, prompting the need for stricter regulations and safety measures. Riders like Damon Spence emphasized the importance of vigilance and adherence to traffic rules to ensure a safe riding experience.
Despite the risks, the appeal of group e-vehicle rides remains strong, offering a unique and affordable recreational activity for individuals across various Canadian cities. As more riders embrace the trend, the need for safety awareness and responsible riding practices becomes increasingly vital in ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for all participants.
