Electric Bicycle California Law

There are three different classes of electric bikes.

Electric bicycle california law. California assembly bill no. In 2015 california updated its bicycle laws to accommodate electric bicycles. Three classes of electric bikes now exist in the state with laws as to where each type may operate. According to the california bicycle coalition governor jerry brown has signed one of the united states most progressive electric bicycle laws which allows 28mph capable electric bikes in bike lanes and allows low power pedal assist electric bikes to use bike paths except when prohibited by local law.

The first type of e bike ab 1096 recognizes is pedal operated bikes that can reach a maximum of 20 miles per hour. Motorized bikes also called electric bicycles are similar to mopeds but california law treats them differently. The classifications are primarily based on where they are allowed to operate. A an electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.

California electric motorized bicycle laws. Cvc 406 a and cvc 406 b. A motorized bicycle is defined by having pedals and an electric motor with fewer than 750 watts. According to this bill each of these e bikes has different features as well as restrictions all users must be aware of.

California is one of the few states that has laws in place specifically for lower powered bikes. They may be used in bike lanes or separated bikeways adjacent to the roadway. California adopted new laws for legal ebikes in 2015 breaking the bikes down into three classes. Assembly bill 1096 defines an electric bicycle as a bike with fully operable pedals and an electric motor up to 750 watts.

California law prohibits any operator of a motorized vehicle include electric bikes to use a wireless device unless it is specifically designed to allow hands free listening and. Electric bikes are not allowed on dedicated bike paths unless the path runs adjacent to a roadway or is posted to allow motorized bicycles. 1096 makes three important classifications in the world of electric bicycles. Motorized bicycles have two separate california vehicle codes or cvc each having their own requirements.

1 a class 1 electric bicycle or low speed pedal assisted electric bicycle is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20. What is an electric bike in california.