If you ride an e-bike, you may want to check the rules before your next trip. New laws are rolling out in parts of the United States, and some riders are already finding out the hard way that not every electric bike is treated the same. Regulators are tightening definitions of infractions, speed limits, and where you’re allowed to ride. Did you know you could be forced off certain roads or trails altogether?
Cycling is eco-friendly, but is it for everyone?
We’ve been sold the idea that cycling is an eco-friendly alternative, and we know that’s true. We’ve also been told that it helps us avoid traffic jams. But now lawmakers are looking to implement a change no one saw coming.
What if they simply banned a whole group of citizens from riding bikes due to their age? That’s what is being proposed in one state, the law would affect millions. Users who don’t have the option of using a car would have to take the bus.
Changes are coming for electric bicycle users
While auto developers continue to battle with authorities regarding autonomous driving, other types of mobility have also received new regulatory updates this year, such as e-bikes. The question isn’t whether they are here to stay. It is about whether you know which category yours falls into — and what that now means for you.
For drivers of e-bikes who live in California, the state has implemented the following changes regarding their use, according to the official website of the City of Palm Desert:
A rear red reflector or red light is required to be switched on and clearly visible at all times of the day when commuting
The light must always be on when the e-bike is in operation
Retailers and brands must verify certified batteries/chargers for these lights
Expanded restrictions will be applied to the rental of e-bikes
Previously, these lighting requirements were only needed if you rode your e-bike at night. The updated laws are intended to improve driver safety by making your bike more visible on the road, especially to drivers of larger vehicles.
Under the San Diego Electric Bicycle Safety Pilot Program, county and city law enforcement now have the authority to ban individuals under 12 from operating Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes.
That’s not all, there’s still more news
If you do not adhere to these new visibility requirements, it is considered an infraction, and you could receive a ticket. Other new safety regulations include mandatory e-bike safety courses for minors if they are caught not wearing a helmet.
Additionally, the new laws require e-bike batteries to be tested by an accredited lab and certified to recognized safety standards. These certified products must display permanent safety labeling, while non-certified e-bikes, batteries, and chargers cannot be sold or leased. Rental restrictions will only go into effect in the state in 2028.
These increased restrictions for e-bikes across states are due to not only the number of road accidents they are involved in, but also to new technology being introduced for these bikes that subsequently requires new regulations to keep the roads safe.
What used to feel simple — hop on and go — now comes with specific requirements about lighting, batteries, certifications, and even age limits in some areas. And if you miss those details, the consequences show up as tickets, restrictions, or limits on where you’re allowed to ride.
For you, that means one thing: knowing your bike’s category and your local rules matters more than ever. Before your next ride, it’s worth asking a simple question — is your e-bike fully compliant, or are you assuming it is?
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