ELECTRIC BICYCLES

Electric bicycles, more commonly referred to as E-bikes, are growing in popularity because they allow people of many ages and abilities to get out and enjoy the fun and enjoyment of cycling with assistance from an electric motor.  Just like a traditional bicycle, there are many different styles of e-bikes, from cargo e-bikes to beach cruisers to mountain bikes, making them useful and fun in many ways.  E-bikes also provide a great alternative to getting into a car to travel around town.

If you ride, or are considering riding an e-bike in and around Lake Forest  please take the time to learn what is and isn't allowed, what the applicable laws are, and follow guidelines and recommendations for the riding safety of yourself and others.

What is an Electric Bicycle? 

An E-bike is an electric bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.

• The same rules of the road that apply to traditional human-powered bicycles apply to all types of electric bikes and human-powered bicycles.
• Electric bicycles do not require registration, licensing or insurance like a car or motorcycle.

E-bike 101

California designates three classes of electric bicycles. Knowing the class of your E-bike will tell you where and how you can ride.

It is against the law in California to modify or otherwise tamper with electric bicycles in a way that changes the speed capability, unless the rider also changes the bicycle’s classification. Electric bicycles with motors of more than 750 watts, and bicycles with gas motors are technically motorcycles according to the law and require Class M licenses, registration, insurance, and meet the minimum age requirement.

Electric Bicycle Feedback

Have you noticed unsafe e-bike riding behavior? If so, please call the Sheriff non emergency number at (949) 770-6011. By providing information, you are helping your community become educated on the issue.

Rules of the Road

All cyclists (e-bike riders included) are subject to all the same rules of the road as motorists. Cyclists who don’t follow the rules are subject to ticketing and fines as defined by the California Vehicle Code or Municipal Code. 

Make sure to follow these guidelines:

• Traffic lights, signs, and signals apply to all road users, including electric bicycle riders
• Cyclists must ride to the right edge of the road as practical. If you're riding slower than traffic, ride in the bike lane. You can leave the bike lane to turn left, pass someone, avoid a road hazard or avoid cars turning right
• Must stop at red lights and stop signs
• Cyclists can ride no faster than 5 mph on City sidewalks
• Cyclists must yield the right-of-way to any and all pedestrians on City sidewalks
• Always yield the right-of-way to pedestrians on City trails
• Must stop before a right turn at red lights
• Riding against the flow of traffic is prohibited
• When a bicycle lane is available, bicyclists are required to use the bike lane unless they are traveling as fast as traffic
• It is illegal to carry passengers on your electric bicycle unless your bike has an extra permanent seat or when using a child safety seat
• Weaving in and out of traffic is prohibited 
• Be aware of other road users, and try to match the average speed
• Always wear a properly-fitted bicycle helmet with the chin strap securely fastened