Folsom police continue to ramp up enforcement against illegally operated electric motorcycles after officers impounded another unregistered e-motorcycle this week and reminded parents they could face legal consequences for allowing children to ride them unlawfully.
According to the Folsom Police Department, officers assigned to the department’s Problem-Oriented Policing Team contacted a juvenile on July 15 after observing the rider operating an electric motorcycle on a public sidewalk.
During the investigation, officers determined the vehicle was not registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles, a requirement for any electric motorcycle being operated legally on public roadways. The e-motorcycle was impounded and towed from the scene.
Police said owners should be aware that towing, storage and administrative fees associated with impounded electric motorcycles can exceed $500.
The juvenile’s parent responded to the scene and met with officers, who reviewed California laws governing electric motorcycles. Police also advised the parent that knowingly allowing a child to operate an electric motorcycle illegally may expose a parent to both criminal and civil liability under California law.
The latest enforcement action follows recent e-bike and e-motorcycle enforcement efforts throughout the city. Earlier this month, the department reported officers had contacted numerous riders during targeted enforcement operations, issuing citations, providing education and impounding illegally operated electric motorcycles.
Police have repeatedly emphasized that many of the vehicles commonly referred to as “e-bikes” are actually classified under California law as electric motorcycles because of their design, performance capabilities and lack of compliant equipment required for street use.
Understanding California’s Electric Vehicle Laws
The department continues urging parents to understand the differences between electric bicycles, electric scooters and electric motorcycles before purchasing one for a child. The rules vary considerably depending on the type of vehicle.
California recognizes three classes of electric bicycles.
Class 1 e-bikes provide pedal assistance only and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. There is no minimum age requirement, and riders younger than 18 must wear a helmet.
Class 2 e-bikes feature both pedal assistance and a throttle capable of powering the bike up to 20 mph. Like Class 1 models, there is no minimum age requirement, but riders under 18 are required to wear helmets.
Class 3 e-bikes provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph. Riders must be at least 16 years old, and helmets are required for all operators regardless of age.
Electric scooters are regulated differently. Riders must be at least 16 years old and possess either a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit. They may not be operated on sidewalks, are limited to one rider and generally may not exceed 15 mph.
Electric motorcycles—including many high-powered electric dirt bikes and similar vehicles that lack functional pedals or are capable of higher speeds—are treated much like traditional motorcycles under California law. They must be registered with the DMV, display a valid license plate when operated on public streets, require a properly licensed operator with the appropriate motorcycle endorsement and all riders must wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet.
Unless they have been properly equipped, registered and licensed for on-road use, electric motorcycles are intended for off-road use only and may not be operated on public streets, bike paths or sidewalks.
Folsom police continue to encourage parents to research California’s electric vehicle laws before purchasing an electric bicycle, scooter or motorcycle and before allowing children to operate one.
The department has made enforcement of unsafe and illegal electric vehicle operation a priority following ongoing community complaints and concerns involving reckless riding throughout the city.
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