With Holidays coming, Susanville Highway Patrol warns parents, before buying your child an e-bike, there are a few rules you need to know;
To classify as an e-bike, it must have fully operable pedals + electric motor of 750 watts or less.
California classifies e-bikes into 3 classes:
– Class 1: Pedal assist only, max of 20 MPH
– Class 2: Throttle-assisted, max of 20 MPH.
– Class 3: Pedal assist only, max of 28 MPH. (Rider must be 16+ and required to wear a helmet regardless of age)
* Class 1 or Class 3 may have start assistance or walk mode that propels on motor power alone, up to 3.7 MPH MAX.
It is NO longer an e-bike and treated as a motorcycle or moped if:
– Motor exceeds 750 watts
– Top speed exceeds class limits (over 20 MPH throttle or 28 MPH pedal assist)
– Modified to go faster than legal limits
These vehicles may not be ridden the same way as e-bikes and may require DMV registration, motorcycle license/endorsement, and insurance depending on where they are operated. Parents could also face liability if providing an illegal e-bike to kids.
Tips for parents: Stick to properly labeled, unmodified class 1-3 e-bikes. Always check the wattage, speed rating, and keep pedals functional. Lastly, always wear a helmet and follow the rules of the road.
Essential E Bike Rules Parents Must Know Before Buying for Kids
