California Vehicle Code §312.5 defines three e-bike classes governing speed, throttle, age, and helmet rules. Los Angeles follows state classifications: Class 1 and 2 cap at 20 mph; Class 3 reaches 28 mph but bars riders under 16 and requires a helmet for all riders.
Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only with motor cutoff at 20 mph. Class 2 use a throttle and also cap at 20 mph. Class 3 are pedal-assist only, cap at 28 mph, require a speedometer, are restricted to riders 16 and older, and mandate helmets for every rider regardless of age. CVC §21207.5 and §21213 control where each class may ride: Class 1 and 2 are generally allowed on Class I bike paths and lanes, while Class 3 are prohibited from Class I separated paths unless a local agency permits. LA also bars motorized vehicles from sidewalks per LAMC §56.15.
Riding without a helmet on a Class 3 e-bike, riding under age 16 on Class 3, or riding any e-bike on a sidewalk in LA results in citations starting around $25 plus court fees.
Los Angeles, CA
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See how Los Angeles's e-bike classes rules stack up against other locations.
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