E-Motorcycle Laws and Safety

E-Motorcycles are a No-Go

Any self-propelled device, whether gasoline or electric powered, that goes faster than 30 miles per hour is considered a motorcycle, a motor driven cycle or a pocket bicycle. Due to their self-propelled nature, they are subject to the California Vehicle Code (CVC).

E-Motorcycle

Only e-motorcycles registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may be ridden on roads or at off-highway vehicle (OHV) parks. These vehicles may not be ridden on trails, bike lanes, or sidewalks. They must have a license plate issued by the DMV to be driven on the street. Riders must have a California Driver's Licensed with a M1 or M2 endorsement and the drivers must carry insurance. Riders and passengers, regardless of age, must wear at DOT approved helmet. These vehicles are subject CVC 400(a)/(b), CVC 405, and CVC 473(a).

Certain e-motorcycles, typically those marketed as off-highway electric motorcycles, are not easily registered in California and must be registered to be used on streets. E-motorcycles, classified as off-highway or not, may not be used on sidewalks, bike trails, bike lanes or bike paths.

Many e-motorcycles perform and have features similar to dirt bikes. E-motorcycles that do not have headlights, taillights, blinkers, mirrors, reflectors, or a horn also cannot be driven on the street, sidewalks, bike trails, bike lanes, or bike paths. Even though e-motorcycles do not traditionally have pedals, adding pedals does not change its classification from "e-motorcycle" to "e-bike". They must still be registered with the DMV.

Failure to comply with California Vehicle Codes regarding e-motorcycles may result in towing or impounding of your vehicle.

Please direct questions regarding e-motorcycles to Roseville Police Traffic Sergeant Mike Ryland at [email protected].

E-Bikes and E-Scooters

Different classifications and models of e-bicycles and e-scooters have different rules regarding their general use, minimum age requirements, whether licenses are needed to operate them, what materials they must be equipped with, and where they can be used.

For more safety tips on e-bikes and e-scooters, visit Roseville Public Works here.