Can I ride an e-bike on the road?

    Electric bikes are as street-legal as traditional human-powered bicycles. You may use them on roadways, bike paths and bike lanes. However, the maximum speed of a motor-powered electric bike ranges from 20-28 mph, depending on the class of e-bike.

    Do I have to wear a helmet?

    Those under the age of 18 must wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet that meets existing safety standards.

    What are the 3 classes of e-bikes?

    Class 1: E-bikes that are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.

    Class 2: E-bikes that also have a maximum speed of 20 mph but are throttle-assisted. 

    Class 3: E-bikes that are pedal-assist only, with no throttle and a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph.

    How do I know the class of my e-bike?

    Manufacturers and distributors of electric bicycles must place a permanent label in a prominent location to each e-bike that contains the classification number, top assisted speed and motor wattage. 

    Class 3 e-bikes are faster than the other classes. What special rules are there for a Class 3 e-bike?

    Those under 16 shall not operate a class 3 electric bicycle. No one may ride a Class 3 e-bike or ride upon one as a passenger on a street or bikeway, or bike path or trail, unless they are wearing a properly fitted and fastened helmet. 

    Do I need lights on my e-bike?

    The same rules apply to e-bikes as standard bicycles. A bicycle ridden at night must have a: lamp emitting a white light that illuminates the highway, sidewalk, or bikeway in front of the bicyclist and is visible from a distance of 300 feet in front and from the sides of the bicycle; 

    • red reflector or a solid or flashing red light with a built-in reflector on the rear that shall be visible from a distance of 500 feet to the rear; 
    • white or yellow reflector on each pedal, shoe, or ankle visible from the front and rear of the bicycle from a distance of 200 feet; and 
    • white or yellow reflector on each side forward of the center of the bicycle, and a white or red reflector on each side to the rear of the center of the bicycle, with certain exceptions.

    Can I have a passenger on my e-bike?

    Yes, but only if your e-bike has a specific seat for the passenger. Any passenger must wear a helmet if under 18. 

    Do I need a driver’s license and insurance to ride an e-bike?

    A person operating an electric bicycle is not required to show proof of financial responsibility. They do not need a driver’s license, registration or license plate. An electric bicycle is not a motor vehicle.

    Am I required to register my e-bike?

    Coronado currently does not require e-bike registration.