E-Bicycle Definitions (VC 312.5)
An electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. Three classes of electric bicycles have been established:
• 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 when a speed of 20 mph is reached.
• Class 3: A low speed pedal-assisted electric 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.
The operator of a Class 3 electric bicycle:
Must be 16 years old or older.
Must wear a bicycle safety helmet.
Must not transport passengers.
May ride an electric bicycle in a bicycle lane if authorized by local authority or ordinance.
All electric bicycle classes are exempt from the motor vehicle financial responsibility, DL, and license plate requirements (VC 24016).
The vehicle code requires all bicyclist to follow the rules of the road. See the following link for more information.
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/motorcycle-handbook/two-wheel-veh...
Electric Motorcycles
These are commonly referred to by brand names (SURRON/TALARIA/SEGWAY), these vehicles are motorcycles. At the time of this flyer, there is no lawful way to operate an electric motorcycle of this type on a public roadway, sidewalk or public park. These electric motorcycles are only be lawfully operated in designated Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) areas after registration with the DMV as a OHV.
Approved by: Captain Jason Hendren