GOEBEL Insurance & Financial

Our very own, Emily Lackas, will be co-hosting the “Insurance Smart” radio show this Saturday morning on KFIZ AM 1450 with Jerry St. John!

Tune in from 7:30–8:00 AM as we talk all things home and auto insurance—helpful tips, insights, and what you need to know to stay protected.

Hope you can join us! 🎙️

KNOW THE DIFFERENCE: E-BIKES vs. E-MOTOS

As electric-powered two-wheeled vehicles become more popular, we're seeing increased confusion about what is legally considered an e-bike and what is actually classified as an electric motorcycle under Wisconsin law.

Legal E-Bikes
Wisconsin law recognizes Class 1, 2, and 3 electric bicycles that:
✔ Have fully operable pedals
✔ Are designed and manufactured as bicycles
✔ Have a motor rated at 750 watts or less
✔ Are limited to specific speed thresholds (20-28 MPH depending on class)

E-Motos / Electric Motorcycles
Many high-powered electric vehicles marketed online as "e-bikes" do not meet Wisconsin's legal definition of an electric bicycle. If a vehicle:
❌ Lacks operable pedals
❌ Has a motor exceeding 750 watts
❌ Is capable of speeds over 28 MPH using motor power

It may be classified as an off-highway motorcycle, regardless of how it is advertised or sold.

Where Can They Be Operated?
Electric motorcycles and off-highway motorcycles are not permitted on public roadways, streets, sidewalks, bicycle paths, or shared-use trails within the City of Fond du Lac, unless specifically authorized by law.

We fully support the safe and lawful use of bicycles and properly classified e-bikes. They provide an efficient and environmentally friendly transportation option for many members of our community.

However, some high-powered electric motorcycles are being marketed in ways that can be misleading to riders and parents. Before purchasing or operating one of these vehicles, we encourage everyone to research applicable laws and understand how the vehicle is legally classified.

A few minutes of research can help avoid citations and keep everyone using our streets, sidewalks, and trails safe.

A big THANK YOU to our Child Watch volunteer, Larry Goebel, for bringing so much joy and energy to our little ones! ❤️

Larry spends time singing interactive children's songs, creating smiles, laughter, and plenty of participation from the kids. These special moments help make Child Watch a fun, welcoming place for our YMCA families.

We're grateful for dedicated volunteers like Larry who share their time and talents with our community. Thank you, Larry, for making a positive impact on our youngest members!

🛥️⚓️🌊

Boating season is almost here! Before getting back on the water, take a few minutes to review these five tips to help prepare your watercraft and keep your time on the water running smoothly. https://ow.ly/hgBU50YVMZi

Warmer temperatures and changing weather patterns can often bring severe convective storms, triggering strong thunderstorms with heavy rain, gusty winds, hail and even tornadoes. 🌪️⚡

Now is the time to review your emergency preparedness plans and prepare yourself, your home and your loved ones for the season’s severe weather.

For tips, visit: https://travl.rs/4nCRJl8.

💡TUESDAY TIP! A common loss deductible can help save money when one event damages multiple insured items. For example, if a storm damages both your home and vehicle, you may only have to pay one deductible instead of separate deductibles for each policy. It’s a valuable feature that can reduce out-of-pocket costs after a covered loss when binding your home and auto with the same insurance carrier.

In honor of National Limerick Day, here’s a little insurance humor to brighten your feed — because protecting your home and auto doesn’t have to be all serious business!

A driver backed into his shed,
Then stared at the mailbox in dread.
His home and his ride
Were both covered with pride—
“Good thing I called my agent,” he said.