San Clemente, CA Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)

010(B) defines the three e-bike classes using the state's speed thresholds: Class 1 assists only while pedaling up to 20 mph, Class 2 can propel the bike without pedaling up to 20 mph, and Class 3 assists while pedaling up to 28 mph and must carry a speedometer. 020(A)(8) layers city-specific restrictions onto Class 3 bikes beyond the general chapter rules: a rider must be at least 16 years old, every operator and passenger must wear a helmet meeting California Vehicle Code Section 21213, and Class 3 bikes may not be ridden on any sidewalk or public off-road trail within San Clemente, a stricter rule than the sidewalk allowance the chapter otherwise gives cyclists lacking a bike lane.

020(A)(5) additionally requires any electric bicycle operated during hours of darkness, defined as 30 minutes past sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, to have a white front lamp visible 300 feet and a red rear lamp visible 500 feet, and limits nighttime operation to riders 16 or older regardless of class. 020(A)(9) requires every electric bicycle to meet federal consumer product safety standards, disengage the motor when brakes are applied, and bars tampering with the motor to increase its speed classification without replacing the classification label. 050(B) exempts disabled riders using these devices safely under the Americans with Disabilities Act from the chapter's restrictions.