California Signs Three New E-Bike Safety Laws

Gov. Gavin Newsom has approved three California laws responding to the growing presence of e-bikes on streets and sidewalks. One measure limits how fast e-bike riders may travel on sidewalks. Another addresses electric motorcycles that are significantly faster but are promoted as e-bikes, tightening rules around their use.

A third measure allows San Mateo County to test a ban on certain slower e-bikes for children younger than 12. If a child breaks that rule, the parent or guardian would receive a $25 penalty. California generally has no minimum age for e-bike riders, though people using the fastest models must be at least 16. Newsom signed comparable pilot-program laws for San Diego and Marin counties in 2024.

The changes matter to Simi Valley residents who ride, walk or drive near e-bikes because sidewalk speeds and the types of electric vehicles allowed could affect everyday travel across California. Supporters say young children may not yet have the judgment and awareness needed for e-bike riding. Opponents, including Streets for All, argue that the San Mateo experiment could lead to excessive enforcement and is too early, especially because San Diego County’s pilot data has not gone to the Legislature. Critics also say lawmakers should put more emphasis on roads designed for different users, since cars pose a larger danger.