California Announces New E-Bike Laws to Address Public Safety Concerns
July 2025 - Los Angeles - California is moving forward with new e-bike regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The state is responding to a sharp rise in accidents, high-speed electric bikes on public roads, and the growing risks tied to unregulated battery systems.
Lawmakers are focusing on cutting down the use of high-powered electric motorbikes that blur the line between bicycles and mopeds. Los Angeles County is one of the key areas preparing for tougher enforcement, especially in crowded beach communities where pedestrian safety has become a growing concern.
The LA Law firm Accident Attorneys is proud to offer top accident legal services in Los Angeles. If you’ve been involved in a traffic or e-bike accident, call our trusted firm today!
New Statewide E-Bike Law Takes Effect in 2026, Limits Motor Power and Requires Battery Certification
The new statewide law, SB 1271, limits electric bike motors to 750 watts and requires that all e-bikes use pedal-assist systems. Throttle-only bikes will face tighter restrictions and reclassification under the law.
All batteries must carry UL certification from accredited testing labs. Sellers must display visible certification labels on the bike or battery to meet the new standards. AB 1774, passed alongside SB 1271, bans after-market speed modification kits that allow e-bikes to bypass safety limits.
Retailers, rental shops, and e-bike riders will need to comply with these changes to avoid penalties starting in 2026.
The law aims to create safer streets and reduce the fire risk connected to uncertified lithium-ion batteries.
Local Law Enforcement in Los Angeles County Begins Crackdowns on Unsafe E-Bikes
Law enforcement in Los Angeles County has already started cracking down on e-bikes that don’t meet current rules. The Manhattan Beach Police Department has reported seizures and citations for unregistered electric motorbikes and unsafe riding practices.
Hermosa Beach and other coastal cities are stepping up enforcement in areas where e-bike use is growing quickly. Officers are focusing on sidewalk riding, excessive speeds, and bikes that exceed legal motor limits.
Los Angeles officials are making it clear that riders will face strict enforcement ahead of the statewide changes in 2026. Public safety and battery risks are driving these local crackdowns.
California Responds to Public Safety Concerns, Youth E-Bike Use, and Lithium-Ion Fire Risks
California lawmakers are addressing public safety concerns associated with electric bikes. Teen riders now use high-powered Sur Ron-style e-motorbikes that can reach speeds up to 50 miles per hour. These bikes create dangerous situations on sidewalks and in crowded streets.
Lawmakers raised concerns about pedestrian injuries, traffic hazards, and the growing number of lithium-ion battery fires linked to uncertified devices. The legal line between e-bikes and mopeds has also become unclear. This confusion makes enforcement more difficult.
Senator Dave Min, who co-sponsored the bill, called the issue “a serious threat to public safety,” and urged quick action to keep California streets safer for everyone.
How Consumers and Retailers Must Adapt Before the 2026 Deadline
Retailers and rental companies must act now to meet the new requirements. Bikes must use UL-certified batteries, show visible safety labels, and block speed modification kits. Firmware updates may be needed to cap motor power within legal limits.
Rental companies must also prepare for tighter restrictions beginning in 2028. Consumers should check their e-bikes for UL certification and stop using speed kits or throttle-only models that fall outside the new rules.
The LA Law Firm Offers Free Guidance to E-Bike Owners and Accident Victims
The LA Law Firm helps e-bike owners understand the new California regulations and supports accident victims dealing with unsafe riders. The firm offers free consultations to review compliance, fight unfair fines, and guide injured riders through the legal process.
Consumers and riders can contact The LA Law Firm directly for clear, local legal advice.
Contact The LA Law Firm
The LA Law Firm is a personal injury firm in Los Angeles, California, representing accident victims and helping local residents with complex traffic and e-bike laws. Contact: (213) 320-0777
