Popping wheelies would become illegal under the proposed law on Oahu

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Putting an end to popping wheelies is the goal of a new bill making its way through the Honolulu City Council.

Introducing Councilmembers Radiant Cordero and Matt Weyer Bill 61 on November 7.

The proposed legislation would ban balancing on the rear wheels of motorcycles, e-bikes and mopeds.

Cordero and Weyer say the goal is to promote public safety.

Last summer, EMS estimated they responded to about two e-bike accidents per week.

Under Bill 61, wheelies would only be allowed during parades, tournaments and other city events.

Retired HPD Deputy Chief John McCarthy says Bill 61 could make enforcement easier for police officers who currently have to stop passengers for reckless endangerment, a misdemeanor that carries up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

“Let’s say the law gets passed… and someone decides to pop a wheelie right in front of them, they don’t have to look through their law book and look up what violation it is and think, ‘Gosh, was it reckless?’ or careless?’ The law says you can’t pop a wheelie. You can’t pop a wheelie.” McCarthy assumed this.

Bill 52A separate proposal for e-bike safety has already passed two council readings and would make wearing a helmet mandatory for everyone under the age of 18, regardless of what type of bicycle or motorized scooter one rides.

Travis Counsell, executive director of the Hawaii Bicycling League, says Bills 52 and 61 could merge and cracking down on trick-or-treating could save lives.

“I think there is a time and a place. Wheelies are certainly a fun activity and all that, but probably not on the road during normal driving, especially in traffic and around other people.” Counsell said.

The city’s Transportation Committee will discuss Bill 52 at an upcoming meeting.