Numerous exercises can help individuals lose weight, strengthen their bones and muscles, and improve their cardiovascular and respiratory health. But cycling is, arguably, one of the best and most enjoyable. That applies to not only riding traditional bikes but also e-bikes, which offer convenience and health benefits.
According to experts, e-bikes are much less physically demanding on joints and muscles than traditional bikes. They also allow riders to travel longer distances. In short, when using a minimal amount of pedal assist or throttle, riding an e-bike provides many of the same health benefits as riding a non-e-bike but without the wear and tear on your body. That all said, there are a few California regulations that e-bike riders should know about before they take to their neighborhood bike lanes, paths, or trails.
What Current and Prospective E-Bike Riders Should Know
According to California law AB 1096, an e-bike is any bicycle that comprises fully operable pedals and an electric motor that produces less than 750 watts of power. The law requires that anyone riding an e-bike follow the same rules that non-e-bike riders must follow, such as obeying the speed limit, safely passing other vehicles on the road, and respecting pedestrians’ right-of-way. California law AB 1096 varies based on the type of e-bike someone owns, which can fall into 1 of 3 categories:
- TYPE 1 – These bikes can reach a maximum of 20 mph with electric pedal assist.
- TYPE 2 – These bikes have handlebar-mounted throttle assist and can reach a maximum speed of 20 mph.
- TYPE 3 – These bikes can reach a maximum of 28 mph with electric pedal assist.
California Regulations Based on E-Bike Type
Like traditional bikes, all e-bike riders in California aged 17 or younger must wear a helmet when riding their bikes. The minimum age for operating a type 3 e-bike is 16. Type 1 and type 2 e-bikes have no age restrictions. California law requires that e-bike manufacturers list a bike’s top speed and design type on a label to help riders determine the type of e-bike they have. That information makes it easier for them to comply with regulations outlined in AB 1096, especially when it comes to where they can and cannot ride their bikes.
Where California E-Bike Riders Are Permitted to Ride Their Bikes Based on AB 1096
There are four principal bike paths in California, and the following AB 1096 regulations apply to them:
- Class 1 bike paths – These bike paths are off the main roads and are exclusively for cyclists and pedestrians. Class one bike paths are on paved roads in nature areas. Individuals must be riding a type 1 or type 2 e-bike to ride on these paths.
- Class 2 bike paths – These are the protected one-way bike lanes on most streets and highways, and they are open to all e-bikes, irrespective of type. Class 2 bike paths have markings on the ground indicating that they are official bike paths. All three e-bike types are allowed to use these paths.
- Class 3 bike paths – These are bike paths on roadways without any bike lane or bike path markings on the road. Motorists, pedestrians, e-bikes, and traditional bikes can travel on these paths. Unlike class 2, class 3 bike paths do not have markings on the ground that indicate they are official bike paths. Instead, they have signs indicating they are open to motorists, pedestrians, and all bikes.
- Class 4 bike paths -These bike paths have barriers, such as curbs, parking lanes, or sidewalks, to protect cyclists from vehicle traffic. These paths are for type 1 or type 2 e-bike riders only.
In addition to following all laws regarding e-bikes, riders should practice safe riding precautions. Including wearing proper protective gear, signaling turns, making yourself visible to drivers and properly maintaining your e-bike.
In summary, e-bikes are becoming more and more popular. And that means they are sharing the roads with more vehicles and pedestrians. California’s AB 1096 is a law designed to help keep those who ride them safe.