New E-bike Laws in California—Bad News for Some Brands??

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California has long been a haven for e-bike enthusiasts, but new regulations effective January 1, 2025, are shaking up the scene. These laws aim to enhance safety, clarify e-bike classifications, and address concerns about high-powered models. While the changes promote responsible riding, some brands are feeling the impact. Here’s a breakdown of the new rules and which companies might face challenges.

Key Provisions of the New E-Bike Laws

1. Speed and Power Limits

The first rule targets speed and power to define what qualifies as an e-bike:

• Throttle-Only Speed Limit: E-bikes designed to exceed 20 mph using the throttle alone are no longer classified as e-bikes. However, pedal-assist e-bikes can still reach up to 28 mph.

• Motor Power Cap: E-bikes delivering more than 750 watts, even briefly, are excluded from the e-bike category. Previously, the 750-watt limit applied only to continuous power, allowing temporary surges. This flexibility is now gone.

Most mainstream brands comply with the 20 mph throttle limit, but models allowing higher throttle-only speeds will lose their e-bike status.

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2. Modified E-Bikes

This provision cracks down on e-bikes modified to exceed legal speed or power limits:

• Riders often reprogram settings or upgrade motors and controllers for extra performance. Even if unintended by manufacturers, these alterations now explicitly violate the law.

• Modified bikes exceeding speed or power caps are no longer considered e-bikes, closing loopholes and ensuring compliance.

3. Functional Pedals Requirement

To qualify as an e-bike:

• The bike must have operational pedals. Removing pedals disqualifies it from e-bike status.

• Pedals alone aren’t enough—speed and power limits still apply, ensuring a consistent standard.

Additional Regulations

• Class 2 and Class 3 E-Bikes: Class 2 e-bikes (throttle-assisted up to 20 mph) remain legal. Class 3 e-bikes (pedal-assist up to 28 mph) face restrictions: starting in 2026, throttles cannot exceed 3.7 mph.

• Battery Safety Standards: From 2026, all e-bike batteries sold in California must pass strict safety tests and be certified. Rental companies have until 2028 to comply.

• Penalties for Modifications: Selling or using products to modify e-bike speed or power can lead to criminal charges, with enforcement by state and local authorities.

Impact on E-Bike Brands

The new rules have already disrupted the industry, particularly for brands like Super73 and Macfox, known for their moped-style e-bikes. These companies face pressure due to models that push speed and power boundaries, often appealing to riders seeking high-performance rides. Other brands with similar designs are also likely to be affected, as they must adjust their lineups to meet the updated classifications.

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Why These Laws Matter

California’s regulations aim to

• Enhance Road Safety: By distinguishing high-performance bikes from standard e-bikes, the state reduces risks on shared roads and paths.

• Promote Responsible Use: Clear rules encourage manufacturers and riders to prioritize compliance and safety.

For riders, understanding these laws is crucial to avoid legal issues. Checking your e-bike’s specs and modifications ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience.

Stay Informed and Ride Safely

California’s e-bike landscape is evolving, and staying updated on these regulations is key to enjoying your ride legally. Whether you’re a casual rider or a dedicated enthusiast, knowing where your bike stands under the new laws will keep you on the right path.

If you found this article helpful, share your thoughts on the new laws in the comments below. Stay tuned for more updates on e-biking in California!

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