Can an electric bike legally travel in the bike lane? Here’s what California law says
The rules surrounding electric bikes can get confusing because, even though the electrical-powered two-wheeler is equipped with a motor, it’s not a vehicle.
An electric bike, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicle’s website, is equipped with “fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.” Generally, e-bikes can be used in bike lanes throughout California.
Even “Class 3” electric bikes, the most powerful type of e-bikes, are allowed in the bike lane. Here’s the catch: The rider, according to California law, must be at least 16 and wearing a well-fitted helmet.
The other types of e-bikes aren’t capable of traveling as fast and have less-specific guidelines attached to them. Electric bikes, according to California Highway Patrol, are broken down into the following categories:
Class 1 - An electric bike with motor assistance when the rider is pedaling. Assistance stops when the bike reaches 20 mph.
Class 2 -An electric bicycle equipped with a motor to help propel the rider and ceases when the bike reaches 20 mph.
Class 3 - An electric bike equipped with a speedometer and motor assistance when the rider is pedaling. Assistance stops when the bike reaches 28 mph.
Thinking about getting an electric bike? Maybe this will help you decide: Electric bikes, according to the California DMV, are exempt from traditional motor vehicle financial responsibility and driver’s license and licensee plate requirements.
Electric bike California laws
The rules surrounding electric bikes are similar to traditional bikes. Those under 18 must wear a helmet while riding Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes and it’s unlawful to ride while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Here are more electric bike laws, according to the California Highway Patrol:
▪ It’s illegal to ride a Class 3 electric bike on a bicycle path, horse trail, hiking trail or recreational trail unless it’s on or next to a road or permission is granted by local authority.
▪ It’s illegal to use an electric bike on a freeway if signs prohibit to do so.
Motorized bike California laws
A motorized bike or moped can be used in the bike lane, according to California DMV’s website, if authorized by local authority.
The two or three-wheeled bike includes fully operative pedals, a motor with gross brake horsepower and an automatic transmission.
The bike can travel up to 30 mph on leveled ground.
This story was originally published October 19, 2022 at 6:30 AM with the headline "Can an electric bike legally travel in the bike lane? Here’s what California law says."