Important Information About E-Bikes

Parents: Know Before You Buy

Make sure the e-bike meets California law and understand the risks of high-powered electric vehicles.

Key Points

• Check motor wattage and speed limits
• Some products sold as "e-bikes" are actually electric motorcycles
• E-bikes must have a manufacturer issued class sticker
• Riders under 18 must wear a helmet
• Riders must follow rules of the road and posted trail speed limits
• riding under the influence is illegal

Warning:

Not everything is an e-bike. Some electric motorcycles are advertised as e-bikes or fitted with fake pedals. This does NOT change their legal requirements

Important Information About E-Motorcycles

Electric motorcycles are not e-bikes and are treated as motor vehicles under California law.

What is an E-Motorcycle?

• Exceeds 28 MPH
• Has no operable pedals
• Requires DMV registration, insurance, and a driver's license with motorcycle endorsement

Where They Can be Used

Allowed Only:

• On the road
• In off-highway vehicle parks (with DMV registration)

Not Allowed:

• Sidewalks
• Trails
• Multi-use paths
• Other non-roadways areas

Common Violations

• No valid motorcycle license (CVC 12500)
• Unregistered vehicle (CVC 4000(a)(1))

Riders may receive citations. Vehicles may be towed if unlicensed, unregistered, or uninsured.

Additional Resources

View the E-Bikes and E-Motorcycles Fact Sheet