The Golden State is often leading the way with its green initiatives. From reducing the use of plastics to promoting electric vehicles like cars and bikes,
California is taking steps to reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions. This is leading to the growing popularity of e-bikes. Electric bicycles are relatively inexpensive, allow you to skip being stuck in traffic jams, and reduce your carbon footprint.
As e-bikes continue to multiply on the roads, so does the number of fatalities. In 2020, the state saw a 200% increase in e-bike fatalities. To help you stay safe on your e-bike, it helps to be familiar with California’s various laws.
How California Defines Electric Bicycles
The state updated its bike laws in 2015 to address the growing number of electric bicycles on the road. Known as Assembly Bill 1096, it sets down a precise definition of what the state considers an e-bike.
An electric bike has fully operable pedals and an electric motor. The electric motor can be up to 750 watts. Yes, this limits your top speed to around 28 mph, but the same laws that govern traditional bicycles also cover e-bikes. So, if you’re familiar with California’s bicycle laws, you’re pretty up-to-date on e-bike requirements.
Other items addressed in Bill 1096 apply to the e-bike’s motor. The motor must shut off when the brakes are applied. The motor can use either a mechanism or a switch to stop the motor function when a rider presses the brakes.
While traditional bicycle and e-bike riders must follow the same laws, Bill 1096 does address three different classifications of electric bikes:
- Class 1: This is a low-speed, pedal-assisted e-bike. The motor only engages when the pedals are active. The top speed for this category of e-bikes is around 20 mph.
- Class 2: If your e-bike has a throttle-actuated motor, it may be in the second category. The motor on the e-bike only stays engaged when the riding is moving along at speeds below 20 mph. Once you reach 20 mph, the motor automatically shuts off and you’re relying on pedal power for momentum. If you fall below 20 mph, the motor kicks back on to provide assistance.
- Class 3: Known as a speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle, the motor helps riders reach speeds of 28 mph before shutting off. You also need to keep pedaling for the motor to stay on, even if you’re only reaching speeds of around 20 mph.
So, how do you know which category of e-bike you’re using to get around? The bill (1096) requires all e-bike manufacturers to include some key information. All e-bikes sold in California must list their top speed and design type. If you can’t find the label with the information on the e-bike, contact the manufacturer.
Can Anyone Ride an E-Bike in California?
You don’t need to head to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) to legally ride an e-bike in California. Unlike motor vehicles, e-bikes don’t require a driver’s license or even a learner’s permit.
License plates and vehicle registration fees also don’t apply to e-bikes. When you add in the bike’s relatively affordable price and lack of vehicle registration fees, e-bikes can be a budget-friendly transportation option.
Before you jump on an e-bike, state law does tackle a rider’s age. If your e-bike can reach speeds of 28 mph and higher, you must be at least 16 years old to ride on public streets. If you have a class 1 e-bike and are under the age of 16, you can legally take it for a spin.
Helmet Laws and E-Bikes
With fatality rates increasing for e-bike riders, wearing a helmet seems like common sense. Surprisingly, California doesn’t require all e-bike riders to wear a helmet. California law is the same for traditional and e-bikes.
Riders under the age of 17 must wear a helmet anytime they take their e-bike out. This also applies if you own a class 3 e-bike. All riders of class 3 electric bicycles must wear a helmet regardless of their age.
If you’re over the age of 17 and have either a class 1 or 2 e-bike, you can skip wearing a helmet. However, this can increase your chances of becoming a statistic if you’re involved in an accident.
Are E-Bikes Allowed Everywhere?
Unfortunately, California is a little behind on establishing dedicated bikeways. You can find plenty of bike lanes in cities, but there are only four major bikeways in the state. A bikeway is sort of like a freeway for cyclists. Only traditional and electric bicycles are allowed in these dedicated lanes.
The state also has bike lanes devoted to the different classifications of e-bikes. Don’t worry, these paths are marked to limited confusion. For example, you may see a sign for a Class 1 Bike Path, a Class 2 Bike Lane, or a Class 3 Bikeway. Only Class 1 e-bikes are allowed on bike paths, but they can also go on lanes and ways dedicated to Class 2 and Class 3 bikes.
Can E-bikes Ride on Sidewalks?
The law is a little vague when it comes to riding an e-bike on the sidewalk. Your best course of action is to follow the law regarding traditional bicycles. The state doesn’t ban bicycles from sidewalks, but this doesn’t mean there aren’t local ordinances in place.
Most California cities prohibit any type of bicycle on downtown sidewalks. Neighborhoods may be a little different. The best suggestion is to check with your local laws before riding an e-bike on the sidewalk.
Even though it’s only a misdemeanor, fines can still be hefty. There’s also the chance of hitting a pedestrian and that may mean you’re dealing with a personal injury claim as a defendant.
Is It Legal to Modify an E-Bike?
California is fairly strict when it comes to modifying an electric bicycle. In most instances, it’s illegal to modify an electric bike. Bicycles shouldn’t have more than a 750-watt engine.
If your engine has more than 750 watts of power, you now own a motorcycle. You’re also required to register the souped up e-bike and pay the associated fees. Hopefully, this information helps you stay safer while riding an e-bike in California.
