E-Bike Safety

What is an E-Bike?

An E-bike, or electric bicycle, is a bicycle with fully operative pedals and with an electronic motor and rechargeable battery. E-bikes are categorized into three different classes.

  • CLASS I: Pedal assist only. No throttle. Maximum speed of 20 mph. Helmet required over the age of 18 years old. 
  • CLASS II: Pedal assisted. Throttle assisted. Maximum speed of 20 mph. Helmet required over the age of 18 years old. 
  • CLASS III: Pedal assist only. No throttle. Maximum speed of 28 mph. The operator must be at least 16 years old. All riders, regardless of age, are required to wear a helmet. 
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E-Bike Safety Checklist

  • Buckled helmet
  • Brakes in working condition (CVC 21201(a))
  • Visible white light displayed on the front of the bike
  • Visible red reflector or light displayed on the rear of the bike
  • White or yellow reflectors on the pedals
  • Wear bright colored clothing while riding
  • Follow all rules of the road (see below)

Rules of the Road

  • Riders are mandated to ride in the same direction of traffic and follow the same traffic laws and traffic control signs as a vehicle (CVC 21456.2(a)).
  • A passenger is not allowed to ride on the e-bike unless a permanent or manufactured seat is attached (CVC 21204).
  • Riders are not permitted to modify or tamper with the bicycle in order to increase it's speed (CVC 24016(d)).
  • E-bike operator must be able to reach the ground when on the bicycle (CVC 21201 (c)).
  • Riders under 18 years of age are required to wear a helmet (CVC21212(a)).

What is the Tustin Police Department Doing About E-bike Safety?

The Tustin Police Department is addressing the importance of e-bike safety by educating adults and children within our community of the proper laws and rules of riding. Officers are enforcing laws to ensure all riders are operating their e-bikes safely and to reduce the amount of traffic accidents. The Tustin Police Department has also partnered with TUSD to ensure all middle school and high school students who ride their e-bikes to school attend a safety presentation and obtain a permit.