MACFOX DISCLAIMER

Thank you very much for your attention and support to Macfox, your comments and suggestions are our greatest motivation. However, we must make the following disclaimer that you need to read carefully before you purchasing:

1. If you are under the age of 18, the adult supervision is strongly recommended.

The emphasis on safe riding practices for minors, particularly with adult supervision, is based on concerns that minors may lack the necessary cognitive and e-bike skills to safely navigate roads. Minors are especially vulnerable because they may not have fully developed the ability to assess traffic risks, understand the rules of the road, or make quick decisions in response to changing situations.
  • Reasons for Adult Supervision:
    • Limited Awareness of Traffic: Minors often struggle to accurately judge the speed and distance of vehicles, which makes it challenging for them to safely cross streets or navigate busy intersections.
    • Incomplete Understanding of Rules: While minors may learn basic traffic rules, applying them in real-life situations can be difficult, especially in unpredictable environments like urban streets. Adult supervision ensures they correctly follow signs, signals, and lane use.
    • Physical Coordination: Minors may not yet have the balance and control needed to safely operate a bicycle in traffic. Adult presence helps them practice and perfect these skills in safer settings, like parks or designated bike lanes.

 

  • Recommendations:
    • The League of American Bicyclists and other cycling safety organizations recommend that minors should not ride on roads without being accompanied by an adult. This is because adults can provide real-time guidance on safe riding behavior, such as using hand signals, understanding right-of-way, and being vigilant of their surroundings. Additionally, some local ordinances may restrict minors from riding in certain areas without adult supervision.


By riding with an adult, young cyclists not only learn from example but are also safeguarded in situations where their inexperience could lead to dangerous mistakes.

 

2. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, here are some precautions things you need to pay attention to.

  • Helmet and Protective Gear:
    • All riders must wear a helmet at all times during the ride.
    • We recommend wearing additional protective gear, such as elbow pads, knee pads, and gloves.
  • Pre-Ride Check:
    • Inspect the vehicle before riding to ensure it is in good working condition.
    • Check the brakes, tires, and steering to ensure everything is functioning properly.
    • Report any issues to your adult supervision before riding.
  • Riding Area:
    • Ride only in the designated test ride area.
    • Avoid riding in areas with heavy foot or vehicle traffic.
    • Be mindful of other riders and pedestrians.
  • Riding Conduct:
    • Ride at a safe speed and maintain control of the vehicle at all times.
    • Keep both hands on the handlebars and both feet on the footrests.
    • Do not perform stunts, tricks, or reckless maneuvers.
  • Awareness and Communication:
    • Be aware of your surroundings and watch for obstacles, other riders, and pedestrians.
    • Communicate with other riders to ensure a safe environment.
  • Health and Fitness:
    • Ensure that minors is in good health and physically capable of participating in the ride.

 

3. Make sure you are riding in compliance with local laws.

  • Common Local Ordinance Themes:
    • Sidewalk Riding: In many urban areas, riding bicycles on sidewalks may be prohibited for safety reasons, particularly in busy commercial districts. In these zones, minors may be allowed to ride on sidewalks if accompanied by an adult, but it's important to give pedestrians the right of way. Some cities allow minors to ride on the sidewalk freely but may still impose restrictions in high-traffic zones. 
  • Park and Trail Use: Local policies often dictate where cyclists can ride in public parks and on multi-use trails. Many municipalities have designated bike paths, and minors may be required to use these paths instead of the main roads, especially when they’re under a certain age. This can help minimize interaction with motor vehicles, offering a safer environment for younger cyclists.
  • Restricted Zones: Some cities prohibit biking in certain areas, like near government buildings, schools, or downtown areas, unless riders are of a certain age or are accompanied by an adult. This helps to reduce potential accidents in congested areas. Signs are typically posted to indicate these restrictions, and they may be enforced more strictly in places with high pedestrian activity​.

4. Participating in and learning appropriate cycling knowledge.

  • Bicycling safety courses are often available and encouraged for minors. These courses may be offered by schools, community centers, or local governments, and while not legally required, they are an important tool for teaching young riders the rules of the road, often with the active involvement of a parent or guardian.