Before purchasing an e-bike, consider whether your child has the riding skills, judgment, and maturity needed to safely operate one. E-bikes are heavier and faster than regular bicycles and require good handling skills.

Consider these questions:

  • Is your child confident riding a regular bicycle?
  • Does your child follow the rules of the road?
  • Does your child recognize and respond to traffic hazards?
  • Can your child safely control a heavier, faster bicycle?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that children under 12 do not operate an e-bike.

Download and print the Trainees for Child Injury Prevention Checklist:  “Is Your Child Ready for an E-Bike?”

An electric bicycle (e-bike) is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that assists while riding. 

California recognizes three classes of e-bikes.

Class Types of E-bikes Top Speed Age Requirement
Class 1 Pedal-assist motor
(750 watt motor maximum)		 20 mph* No statewide minimum age
(Helmet required for under 18)
Class 2 Pedal-assist and throttle
(750 watt motor maximum)		 20 mph* No statewide minimum age
(Helmet required for under 18)
Class 3 Pedal-assist motor
(750 watt motor maximum)		 28 mph* 16 years old
(Helmet required for all ages)

Class 1 e-bikes are recommended as the starting point for youth riders. If your child is 12-15 years old and you determine that they are ready to ride an e-bike, choose only a Class 1 e-bike (Source: American Academy of Pediatrics).

Because the motor only assists while the rider is pedaling, Class 1 e-bikes operate more like a regular bicycle and can help new riders develop safe riding skills.

Class 2 e-bikes include a throttle that can propel the bicycle without pedaling. Using a throttle requires riders to manage acceleration differently and can be more challenging for new or inexperienced riders.

 Considerations:

  • Your child's age.
  • Riding experience.
  • Where they will ride.

When possible, purchase an e-bike from a trusted bicycle retailer.

Local bike shops can help:

  • Confirm the bicycle meets California's legal definition of an e-bike.
  • Demonstrate how to safely operate the e-bike.
  • Provide maintenance and repairs.

E-bikes require regular maintenance, so having access to a trusted retailer or bicycle shop that can provide service and repairs is an important safety consideration.

Battery safety

Use only the battery and charger recommended by the manufacturer. Never use a damaged or modified battery. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage.

Use caution when purchasing online

Some products advertised as e-bikes may be electric motorcycles (e-motos) that do not meet California’s legal definition of an e-bike.

Legal e-bikes have:

  • Fully operable pedals.
  • A motor no greater than 750 watts.
  • Motor assistance limited to:
  • 20 mph (Class 1 & Class 2)
  • 28 mph (Class 3, MUST be at least 16 and all ages MUST wear a helmet)

E-Motos: 

E-motos are not e-bikes. E-motos are electric motorcycles that can reach speeds of 30-50+ mph. They are not intended for use by young riders. Legally, an e-moto rider must have a valid driver's license, insurance and registration when riding on streets.

Before your child begins riding, take time to discuss safe riding habits and family expectations.

Completing a Student & Parent E-Bike Safety Pledge together encourages conversations about safe riding, reinforces shared responsibility, and helps establish clear family expectations.

  • Take an e-bike safety class.
  • Start out slowly and practice in low-traffic areas before riding on busier streets.
  • Supervise youth initially until they demonstrate safe and responsible riding habits.
  • Wear a properly fitted and securely buckled helmet every time you ride (consider a helmet rated for e-bikes).
  • Check the e-bike before every ride (tires, brakes, chain, battery, and lights).
  • Be visible (use front and rear lights and wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at dawn and dusk).
  • Avoid distractions like cell phones and headphones.
  • Ride solo unless the bike is specifically built to carry passengers.
  • Ride in the same direction as traffic and use appropriate hand signals.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s battery and charging instructions. Use only the recommended charger and battery.

E-Scooters

An electric scooter (e-scooter) is a two-wheeled device with handlebars, a floorboard to stand on, and an electric motor. Make sure your child has the skills and maturity to safely control an e-scooter, understands the rules of the road, and practices in a low-traffic area.

Requirements:

  • Must be at least 16 years old and have a learner’s permit or driver's license.
  • Maximum speed is 15 mph. Many e-scooters can go faster—be aware!
  • Riders under 18 must wear a helmet.
  • Only one person may ride at a time.

E-Skateboards

Electric skateboards (e-skateboards) are boards powered by an electric motor and capable of traveling up to 20 mph under motor power. E-skateboards require balance, braking skills, and the ability to respond quickly to hazards and traffic. Make sure your child practices in low-traffic areas.

Requirements:

  • Must be at least 16 years old.
  • All riders must wear a helmet.
  • Maximum riding speed is 15 mph.