Class 2 Throttle-Assisted Electric Motorcycles"E-Motos" Get the Facts before buying your Child an E-Bike
What kind of e-bike should I buy for my child?
Does your child really need an e-bike because of long distances or hills to climb? Watch this Video - Parents Guide to E-Bike Safety for Youth. All e-bikes are harder to maneuver and take longer to stop because of the extra speed and weight, so parents should first evaluate their childs needs and ability before purchasing one. 12yr old Boy Riding a "E-Moto" Hits & Kills 66 yr old Woman in Forida
What's All the Fuss about Class 2 throttle-assisted "e-motos" ?
A great number of the throttle-assisted "e-motos" sold in California are illegal for anyone of any age to drive because their motors are larger than 750 watts and capable of going above 20 mph without pedaling – the legal limit for a throttle e-bike. Even if they have a Class 2 e-bike label, if it is over 750 watts and capable of providing speed above 20 mph, they are electric motorcycles "e-motos", and like gas motorcycles, the vehicle must be equipped with motorcycle lights and rearview mirrors, and a driver’s license and DMV registration are required. These un-equipped and unregistered e-motorcycles are not allowed to be driven by any person on public roads, streets, sidewalks or trails. Channel 5 TV News Story: 70 "E-motos" at Stone Valley Middle School & Increased East Bay Police Safety Enforcement
Are People overreacting about all this?
No. Data as of October 2024 on the Marin’s Health and Human Services Bicycle Safety Dashboard reveals 85% of all 911 bicycle crashes for ages 10 to 15 were e-bike related; the e-bike crash rate for 10 to 15-year-olds is 5 times higher than any other age group. These severe injuries are similar to those involving motorcycle crashes, such as concussions (even when wearing a helmet) and broken pelvic bones with long-term or permanent consequences. Boy Hospitalized after Crash while Riding Electric Motorcycle "E-Moto"
If a throttle-assisted Class 2 has a label, is it legal?
No, unfortunately, many manufacturers of throttle-assisted use a Class 2 label even though the bicycles they sell are capable of exceeding the legal limit of 750 watts of power and can engage the throttle when traveling over 20 mph. Software for these illegal e-wheels can be downloaded to anyone’s cellphone and used to switch the device to exceed 20 mph on motor power alone. 14-Year Old Boy Dies in E-Bike Crash (April 16,2025)
How does Senate Bill 1271 Change the Law for E-Bikes in California?
SB 1271 was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom in September 2024, this comprehensive bill addresses four critical areas: Motor Power Limitations, Throttle Use Restrictions, Speed Limit Clarifications and Battery SafetyRequirements. A Must Read for All Parents: Senate Bill 1271 Changes Everything
Has the California Highway created a E-Bike Safety Course?
Yes! The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has created a online Electric Bicycle Safety Course to help protect commuters and recreational riders.
Why aren't manufactures and sellers held accountable?
This new technology came out rapidly, leaving consumers responsible for understanding the laws and self-regulating their purchases. Schools and law enforcement are now attempting to enforce the laws. Lawsuits may be inevitable by consumers or injured victims to hold manufacturers and retailers accountable. California Assembly AB 1774 was signed into law. As of January 1, 2025, the state prohibits the sale of products or devices that can modify the speed of an e-bike per AB 1774. Photo Gallery of 20 Electric Motorcycles E-Motos (PDF)
How can a labeled Class 2 e-bike go faster that 20mph?
For e-bikes sold by certain manufacturers, the rider may use the handlebar display or an app paired with the bicycle to shift into “unlimited” mode and exceed 20 mph without pedaling. Students can use their own iPhone or a friend’s iPhone to download the app. Using the fastest “mode” for one of the most popular brands, riders can go from zero to over 30 mph (50% faster than the legal limit for Class 2 e-bikes) in a few seconds. Mother whose Son was in Electric Motorcycle "E-Moto" Crash stresses importance of safety
Does my Insurance cover my Child on a Class 2 Throttle-Assisted "E-moto"?
Maybe! In California, parents can be held liable for the damage done by their children on an "E-Moto". Most homeowners policies include a personal liability policy, and if you have personal liability umbrella coverage that will cover you if your child harms someone else. But whether or not you are insured, you can be personally sued if your child causes property damage or injury. This could lead to massive increases in your insurance rates or being dropped by your insurance carrier altogether.
Has a Lawsuit been filed against Super 73?
Yes! Read about it here: Super 73 Lawsuit (02/10/2025)(PDF)
