delivery cyclists

Uber is working on an e-bike exchange program, and a New York-based startup is looking to expand its e-bike rental system for delivery workers, as e-bike and scooter batteries draw scrutiny from legislators.

The workers expressed fears that they would be hassled when making deliveries and that the ban could extend to private landlords.

"Most of us work full time, ten to twelve hours a day, and you need to use the bathroom," said one worker who has been denied the use of a restroom by restaurants for which he delivers food.

A housing development planned for Sunset Park features secure bike parking for residents and free slots for delivery workers.

“He was hardworking,” Estrada told Gothamist. “He came here looking for a better future and a better life. He wanted to contribute to this country.”

Restaurants became even more reliant on third-party delivery services over the past year, but that came at a price for them and for delivery workers.

According to the NYPD, only 71 e-bike citations were issued to businesses in all of 2019, while 1,052 summonses—which carry $500 fines—were given to riders.

Of course, the law (and proper NYC bike etiquette) requires that cyclists yield to pedestrians.

Cuomo has until the end of the month to sign legislation that would legalize e-bikes and e-scooters.

'We just want them to stop torturing the food delivery workers.'