New California eBike Legislation
New California legislation prohibits the sale of Class 3 eBikes to individuals under the age of 16, a violation of this prohibition is punishable by a fine not to exceed $250. Signed by the California Governor and filed with the Secretary of State July 28 2025 the new law is presently in effect.
eBike Classifications
eBikes are bicycles with electric motors to assist the rider, they are separated into three classifications according to their operating capability like this:
- Class 1 eBike motors provide assistance only when the operator is pedaling, these bike motors are speed and assistance limited to 20mph.
- Class 2 eBike motors provide assistance whether the operator is pedaling or not, these bike motors are speed and assistance limited to 20 mph.
- Class 3 eBikes provide a speedometer and a motor that provide assistance when pedaling, these motors are speed and assistance limited to 28mph.
eBike Safety
AB 965 aligns the sale of eBikes with the permitted age of use for young operators and critically protects our youth under the age of 16. The measure is a safety-first fix by increasing parent involvement in making the purchase decision for their children's transportation choices and safety.
"This new law will work in conjunction with other bills and regulations, attempting to curb accidents and injuries. According to data from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, children 14 years and younger accounted for 36% of “micromobility injuries” from 2017 to 2022." (see Assembly Woman Diane Dixon 72nd District 2025 Legislation TBD)
-LS
