Como Mayor Introduces E-Bike Riding Ban After Personal Collision Incident

The mayor of Como has implemented a citywide restriction on bicycle usage in the historic district following a personal encounter with an electric bike.

Alessandro Rapinese announced the ban as a necessary measure to enhance public safety. Effective September, cyclists will be required to dismount and walk their bicycles through approximately 30 streets within the restricted zone.

During an interview with Italian news agency Ansa, Rapinese stated: “People act based on their own experiences, and I now understand firsthand what it feels like to be struck by one of these machines.”

This action aligns with similar measures adopted by various European municipalities, including those in the UK, which have introduced limitations on the use of e-bikes and other personal mobility devices in congested urban areas.

Rapinese’s initiative forms part of a broader regulatory framework aimed at managing increasing tourist traffic in Como. The new regulations include the establishment of a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) designed to reduce vehicular congestion and enforce stricter controls on cars and vans operating within the city center.

Many of the affected streets are among the widest in the old town and have become popular routes for delivery vehicles navigating the bustling commercial district.

The regulation applies equally to both electric and traditional bicycles, consistent with national traffic laws that do not differentiate between bicycle types.

Rapinese addressed the issue through a video update as part of his regular digital communications series, RapiNews24, where he personally recounts civic matters directly to residents.

In the video, he described an incident from July when he was struck by an e-bike while exiting city hall shortly after his administration had initiated discussions about traffic management reforms.

The cyclist involved in the collision has not been publicly identified.

“Fortunately, I didn’t require hospital treatment,” Rapinese said. “I was hit by a bike, but I took the time to gather information, and that’s how this policy emerged.”

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