Folsom Police have impounded an off-highway electric motorcycle as part of an ongoing investigation into the vandalism of a vehicle windshield reported last month at Palladio, an incident that drew attention and discussion across local social media channels.
According to the Folsom Police Department, officers impounded the vehicle on Wednesday, July 1, as part of the follow-up investigation into the June 23 incident. Police said officers took the initial report on the day of the vandalism, and another officer attempted to stop the suspect at that time. Additional investigative work was later needed to identify the individual involved.
Police said criminal investigations often take time to complete and may include follow-up interviews, evidence collection and coordination with the District Attorney’s Office to determine whether enough evidence exists to support prosecution.
“As with many investigations, our officers consulted with the District Attorney’s Office throughout the investigative process to determine appropriate next steps,” the department said in its statement.
The case is being submitted to the District Attorney’s Office with a request for criminal charges, according to police. Because the suspect is a juvenile, police said no identifying information will be released.
The department said it would not comment further on the case because it remains an active or pending criminal investigation.
Police also used the incident as a reminder for parents to speak with their children about responsible riding behavior, where electric bikes and similar vehicles may legally be operated, and the consequences of criminal conduct both on and off the bike.
The department also clarified that the vehicle involved was not an e-bike, despite its appearance. According to police, the vehicle does not have operable pedals and is classified as an off-highway electric motorcycle.
Police said vehicles of that type are not legal to operate on public streets, sidewalks, bike paths or other public pathways. Riders who operate them unlawfully can face enforcement action, including citations and vehicle impoundment.
The issue of e-bikes, e-scooters and electric motorcycles has become a growing concern in Folsom and other communities as more young riders use electric-powered bikes and off-highway vehicles in neighborhoods, shopping centers, public roadways and pedestrian areas. The city is urging riders and parents to understand that not all electric-powered two-wheel vehicles are treated the same under California law.
E-Bike and Motorcycle Laws
According to the City of Folsom’s e-bike and e-scooter guidance, Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only, have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph and do not have an age restriction. Helmets are required for riders under 18, and Class 1 e-bikes are permitted in bike lanes and on trails.
Class 2 e-bikes may have both pedal assist and a throttle, also have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph and have no age restriction. As with Class 1 e-bikes, helmets are required for riders under 18, and they are permitted in bike lanes and on trails.
Class 3 e-bikes are pedal-assist bicycles with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph. Riders must be at least 16 years old, and helmets are required for all riders. Class 3 e-bikes are also permitted in bike lanes and on trails.
The city’s guidance also notes that riders must follow Folsom’s city bike trail speed limit of 15 mph when operating on local trails.
E-scooters fall under separate rules. According to the city, e-scooter riders must be at least 16 years old and must have a valid California learner’s permit or driver’s license. E-scooters are limited to 15 mph, may not be ridden on sidewalks and are for solo riders only. Minors are required to wear a helmet.
Mopeds and motorized bicycles are also different from e-bikes. The city states that mopeds and motorized bicycles require a driver’s license, must be registered and display a license plate, and riders must wear a DOT-approved helmet. They are not permitted on bike trails.
Electric motorcycles are subject to even stricter requirements. According to the city, e-motorcycles must be registered with the DMV, riders must wear DOT-approved helmets and they are limited to off-road use unless they are street legal. E-motorcycles may not be ridden on sidewalks, bike trails, bike lanes or bike paths.
The city also warns that some vehicles marketed as off-highway electric motorcycles are not easily registered in California, but still must be registered to be used on streets. Adding aftermarket pedals to an e-motorcycle does not convert it into an e-bike.
Many e-motorcycles perform more like dirt bikes than bicycles. The city notes that models without headlights, taillights, blinkers, mirrors, reflectors or a horn may not be driven on the street, and they also cannot be used on sidewalks, bike trails, bike lanes or bike paths.
Failure to comply with California Vehicle Code requirements for motor-driven cycles or e-motorcycles may result in towing or impoundment, according to the city.
The City of Folsom also directs riders to a free California Highway Patrol e-bike safety course, which provides information on rules of the road and safe riding practices for e-bike riders of all ages.
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