- Electric bicycles, or e-bikes, have become a hot topic for Californian authorities worried about their surge in popularity.
- Several new bills aim to reclassify and clear up what is defined as an e-bike and what should be considered a light electric dirt bike.
- The rise of high-power electric motorbikes highlights the need for clarity and education on what is legal and what isn’t.
As high-performance electric motorbikes surge in popularity, especially among teens, law enforcement in California is taking a more rigid stance against their use on public roads. Experts say that these lightweight yet powerful motorbikes blur the lines between bicycles and motorcycles, prompting safety concerns from multiple agencies.
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The issues have resulted in a rethink of just what constitutes an electric bicycle, with a new bill in the State of California requiring e-bikes to fall under much stricter criteria. The laws, which will come into effect on the first of January 2026, will require e-bikes to be fully operable with pedals, while the electric motor should not exceed 750 watts. E-bikes, powered devices, lithium batteries, and their related charging systems will also need to be tested to ensure they meet specific safety standards.
Police Crackdown
Ahead of the incoming laws, the Manhattan Beach Police Department (MBPD) in Los Angeles County is one of the latest law enforcement agencies to address the issue. The MBPD reports a growing trend of juveniles riding Sur Ron-style motorbikes, which far exceed the regulatory standards for electric bicycles.
Unlike standard e-bikes, these vehicles can reach speeds of up to 50 mph – double the legal limit for electric bicycles – and boast up to five times the power. Additionally, the lack of pedals places them firmly in the category of light electric dirt bikes rather than bicycles – one of the things that Senate Bill 1271 will address.
Electrek reports that in a social media statement, the MBPD cautioned parents to “Please make sure those Christmas presents are being used legally and responsibly so we don’t have to play the role of the Grinch.” The department clarified that these motorbikes are not legal on public streets, sidewalks, or bike paths and shared a stark reminder: confiscation is a real consequence.
The Rising Appeal of Electric Motorbikes Among Teens
Sur Ron and Talaria motorbikes, along with similar models, have gained traction among younger riders due to their impressive speed and accessibility. Often sold online with misleading claims that they require no license or registration, they attract teens unaware of the legal restrictions. SB 1271 will prohibit anyone from distributing, selling, or leasing an e-bike unless it has been tested for compliance with the new regulations.
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In California, recent legislation has tightened the classification of electric bicycles, emphasizing the illegal nature of riding high-powered motorbikes on public roads without proper registration. However, the lack of awareness among teens and their parents often results in traffic violations, fines, or even vehicle confiscations. In 2028, the restrictions will extend to prevent someone from offering such bikes for rent without the required testing.
Public Safety Concerns Further Drive Crackdowns
Law enforcement officials cite pedestrian safety and traffic law violations as primary concerns. These electric motorbikes, when ridden on sidewalks or bike paths, pose a serious risk to pedestrians. Additionally, their high speeds make them a hazard in traffic, leading to accidents and near-misses.
Further restrictions to the minimum age at which an e-bike can be operated have also been clarified for local authorities in Marin County and San Diego while also mandating operators of class 2 e-bikes to wear helmets. In a further attempt to improve public safety, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1774, which prohibits modifications to an e-bike’s top speed. Further restrictions to the minimum age of which an e-bike can be operated have also been clarified for local authorities in Marin County and San Diego, while also mandating operators of class 2 e-bikes to wear helmets.
A Call for Education and Clearer Regulations
The increasing popularity of high-power electric motorbikes like Sur Ron and Talaria highlights the need for more education on their proper use and legal status. While these motorbikes offer a thrilling ride, the legal and safety implications cannot be ignored.
As enforcement measures intensify, it’s crucial for teens and their parents to understand the rules of the road and the risks of ignoring them. For now, the message from police departments remains clear: ride responsibly or risk losing your bike.
