Just the other day, for instance, while I was walking back to Louisville from Gelson's with my friends, we encountered an aggressive  e-bike gang. As soon as these teenage boys saw us approaching, they immediately started popping their wheelies and cheering each other on. The blatant attempt to get our attention was not lost on us, but we were all more annoyed than pleased with their display. 

Once we passed one obstacle though, we immediately ran into another. Upon continuing our walk, we spotted a second and entirely different group of e-bikers. These teens were exercising the other power e-bikes provide, unfathomable and uncontrollable speed. They were racing towards us down the sidewalk with no intention of slowing down or going around. It became clear that we would have to jump out of the way to save our lives from these reckless riders. 

What especially drives these riders to the Louisville area though, is the bike course right next to campus parallel to the exit of the junior lot. The boys are attracted to the area because it unfortunately gives them a place to refine their skills. There are many ramps and banks in this dirt area where the teens can “perfect” their wheelies and other tricks. As far as I’ve seen, they need a lot more practice..

I’m sure most people by now have seen an e-biker cruising around town with not a care in the world, maybe even doing something questionable, but if you haven’t, consider yourself lucky. As annoying as the presence of e-bikers is for me though, it has surprisingly become my own personal cliche. 

Now every time I see a group of e-bikers, I almost catch myself hoping they’ll pop a wheelie for my own entertainment. It’s clear that e-bikers and their performative tendencies won’t be going away anytime soon, so I might as well find a little humor in their presence.