CALIFORNIA, USA — Today's Why Guy question comes from Patrick Powers; "I was on the bike trail the other day with bicyclists, joggers, and families with strollers, e-bikes, and e-scooters. Why are skateboarders ostracized and criminalized?"
Patrick, criminalized may be a bit strong, but your point is noted. ABC10 did a story back in March 2019 about why skateboards are banned on the bike trail and the county couldn't give us a firm answer, but rather sort of a "it's the rule."
The issue has also been discussed on Reddit, with people theorizing as to why skateboards are discriminated against. The issue of banning skateboards applies generally to bike trails and bike lanes.
"No person shall ride upon a skateboard, roller skates, in-line skates, roller skis or similar device within the boundaries of any park facility where the use of such devices has been prohibited..." according to Sacramento County Park Regulations.
Ok, that's the law, but why is there a law about skateboards? According to skateboarders themselves, boards are banned on bike trails because of unpredictability, no emergency brakes, and inexperienced boarders trying tricks.
Now, skateboards have come a long way since these rules were made. The boards are easier to maneuver and have wheels that can handle dips and rocks.
But for now, skateparks are where the government wants you to ride. Not the bike trail.
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