Under California law, e-bikes are essentially treated the same as a standard bicycles. Although, there are exceptions. Since e-bikes are not considered motor vehicles, they are exempt from various laws and requirements that apply to motorcycles and automobiles. For example, e-bike operators do not need:
- Operator’s licenses
- State or local registration
- Motor vehicle insurance
- License plates
But since e-bikes can exceed the speed of most ordinary bicycles, their speed may be governed in a similar way as motor vehicles. In this article, we’ll explore how California law governs E-bike speed.
E-Bike Speed Regulations
In 2015, the California Legislature passed AB-1096. This law classifies e-bikes into three categories based on their maximum speed and method of operation. The classifications of e-bikes include:
- Class 1: a low speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a motor, which provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when a speed of 20 mph is reached
- Class 2: a low speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a motor used exclusively to propel the bicycle and NOT capable of providing assistance once a speed of 20 mph is reached
- Class 3: a low speed pedal-assisted electrical bicycle equipped with a speedometer, and a motor which provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when a speed of 28 mph is reached
AB-1096 also allows Class 3 e-bikes to travel on public roads and bike lanes, while Class 1 & 2 e-bikes are only permitted on multi-use paths unless local ordinances prohibit it. The law also states that Class 3 e-bike operators must be at least 16 years old, and all riders under 18 must wear a helmet when riding.
Recent Changes to E-Bike Law in California
Last September, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law SB-1271. This new law went into effect as of January 1st, 2025. It redefines and adds several e-bike regulations that apply to the state of California. One of the main points in this new regulation is that many of the throttle-enabled electric bikes (e-bikes) currently on the road will no longer be street-legal.
The new law clarifies the three-class system listed above. It states that Class 1 & 3 e-bikes cannot be capable of operating on motor power alone. Essentially, these classes cannot have any functional hand throttle to power the motor without pedal input, regardless of the maximum speed they can reach. The only way throttles on e-bikes are still legal is on Class 2 e-bikes.
However, the law provides an exception to Class 1 & 3 e-bikes having a throttle. These classes are permitted to have a throttle only if it powers the e-bike to a maximum of 3.7 mph. This is essentially enough power to walk the bike without pedaling to slowly roll the bike under its own power.
Common E-Bike Violations and Fines
With law enforcement officials throughout Thousand Oaks Ventura County cracking down on e-bike regulations, it is important to know what is considered a violation and how much you could be fined. E-bike operators can be fined for:
- Not wearing a helmet: All riders under the age of 18 must wear a standard helmet when riding an e-bike. Failure to wear a helmet may result in a $25 fine.
- Exceeding top speed: The top speed of an e-bike should be under 20 mph, unless it is a Class 3, then it is 28 mph. If you exceed these speeds, then your e-bike may be considered a motorcycle, resulting in a $100 fine.
- Driving in no-go zones: E-bikes are generally allowed in bike lanes, the shoulder, or the road if it’s a class 3. However, no e-bikes are permitted on highways, which is considered a no-go zone and can result in a fine of around $100.
- Overloading: E-bikes are limited to a maximum load capacity of 180 pounds. If you are driving out of control due to overloading, you can be fined around $100.
- Not equipped with lighting: All e-bikes in California must be equipped with headlights and taillights for low visibility conditions. If an e-bike fails to meet these requirements, riders may be fined $25 per violation.
Contact a California E-Bike Lawyer
While California has laws e-bike riders must follow to be safe, property owners, government entities, and other motorists still owe them a duty of care on the road, as well as bike paths. On the road, e-bike operators are offered practically no protection from serious hazards, making them far more likely to be seriously injured in an accident or in worse cases, killed. That’s why having an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer on your side is vital to your compensation.
The dedicated team of E-bike Lawyers at Quirk understand how essential it is to receive compensation after a bicycle accident injury. Our firm will aggressively pursue liable parties to recover the maximum amount of damages you’re owed. If you’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Contact Quirk Accident and Injury Attorneys today for a no-cost, confidential consultation to see what legal options are available for your situation.