E-Bike safety in Lakewood

Person kneeling by e-bike

Electric bikes, commonly called e-bikes, are becoming increasingly popular across Southern California. While they may look similar, e-bikes are heavier and faster than traditional bicycles, which means riders and parents should understand the safety rules before using one. 

If you are considering an e-bike for yourself or your child, it is important to know the different types of e-bikes, where they can be ridden and the rules riders must follow.  

Unsafe or unlawful e-bike use puts everyone at risk. Parents are encouraged to talk with their children about safe and legal riding. 

What is an E-Bike?

An electric bicycle (e-bike) is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor of less than 750 watts that can assist with pedaling or replace pedaling entirely.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles recognizes three classes of e-bikes, based on how the motor works and the top assisted speed.  

Types of E-Bikes

  • Class 1: Pedal-assist only; motor assists with pedaling; maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. 
  • Class 2: May be operated with a handlebar throttle without pedaling; maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. 
  • Class 3: Pedal-assist only; maximum assisted speed of 28 mph.

In California, e-bike manufacturers are required to place a label on the bike frame identifying its class.

E-bikes that have been modified or “unlocked” to reach higher speeds than the California Vehicle Code permits are no longer legally considered e-bikes and may be subject to different laws.

Some E-Bikes are actually motorized vehicles

Some products marketed as e-bikes may legally be classified as mopeds or motorized bikes.

E-motorcycles have a throttle, no pedals (only foot pegs) and the motor has more than 750 watts. They are intended for off-highway use and are not street legal.

These vehicles have additional requirements such as:

  • Minimum age limits
  • Driver’s license requirements
  • Helmet requirements
  • Registration and insurance

More importantly, mopeds, pocket bikes and other mini motorcycles are not allowed on sidewalks, bike paths, bikeways or trails.

What is street legal?

To be considered street legal, a motorcycle must have the following:

  • A valid motorcycle license plate
  • Current registration
  • Proof of insurance
  • Operational headlights and taillights
  • Functional turn signals

E-Bike requirements in California

Type Max MPH Min Age Helmet required Driver’s License/ Registration/Insurance
Class 1 20 None Yes, if under 18 No
Class 2 20 None Yes, if under 18 No
Class 3 28 16 Yes No
Moped Varies 16 Yes Yes

 

Rules of the Road

E-bike riders must follow the same traffic laws as other cyclists and motorists. Violations may result in citations under the California Vehicle Code or Lakewood Municipal Code.

Key safety rules include:

  • Ride safely in the same direction as traffic. (CVC 21650.1)
  • Ride as close to the right edge of the road as practical. (CVC 21650)
  • Obey all traffic signs and signals, including stop signs and red lights. (CVC 21453, CVC 22450)
  • Use hand signals when turning or stopping. (CVC 22108)
  • Always yield to pedestrians. (CVC 21453, CVC 22450) 
  • Only one rider per seat. (CV 21712 (h)) 
  • No cell phone use while operating the bike. (CVC 27400) 
  • Do not wear headphones or earbuds in both ears. (CVC 27400) 
  • Use required lights and reflectors when riding at night.  (CVC 21201) 
  • Riders under 18 must wear a properly fitted helmet. (CVC 21212 (a))

Do not modify bikes to increase speed. 

In Lakewood, riding on sidewalks, parks and recreational areas is prohibited. (LMC 8.3285, LMC 2.4220.1)

Enforcement in Lakewood

The City of Lakewood, in partnership with the LA County Sheriff’s Department, has a zero-tolerance policy for unsafe e-bike activity.

Lakewood Deputies have issued citations and impounded e-bikes when riders violate safety laws.

Enforcement may include:

  • Citations and fines
  • Vehicle impoundment
  • Mandatory safety education
  • Child endangerment considerations in serious cases

Parents may be cited and fined for their child’s e-bike violations, including operating an unlawful e-bike or riding without required safety equipment.

Reporting unsafe E-Bike activity

To report unsafe e-bike activity, contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Lakewood Station at 562-623-3500.

What is an e-bike?

An electric bicycle (e-bike) is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor of less than 750 watts that can assist with pedaling or replace pedaling entirely.


The California DMV recognizes three classes of e-bikes based on how the motor works and the maximum speed. 


E-bikes that have been modified or “unlocked” to reach higher speeds than the California Vehicle Code permits are no longer legally considered e-bikes and may be subject to different laws.

 

Report unsafe e-bike activity

Contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Lakewood Station at 562-623-3500.

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