California is on the verge of revolutionizing the regulation of out-of-class electric two-wheelers with a newly proposed bill, SB 586. This bill aims to bring clarity to the status of electric bikes without pedals by officially categorizing them as “eMotos” and classifying them as off-highway vehicles.
Introduced by Senator Brian Jones, SB 586 addresses the current confusion surrounding pedal-less electric bicycles, which often fall between the classifications of bicycles, scooters, and motorcycles. These electric two-wheelers, commonly known as Sur Ron-style bikes after the popular Sur Ron motorbikes that popularized the format, are also produced by manufacturers like Talaria, E Ride Pro, and Segway. Weighing around 100 to 140 lb and reaching speeds of 40-55 mph, these bikes resemble light dirt bikes but lack pedals.
Under the new bill, “eMotos” are explicitly defined as electric two-wheeled vehicles built on bicycle frames without pedals or traditional engine identification numbers. They are not required to undergo traditional vehicle registration but must have an official identification plate issued by the California DMV. This classification aligns these bikes with off-road vehicles like dirt bikes and ATVs, requiring them to follow established off-highway vehicle regulations.
Riders of eMotos would need to adhere to regulations such as mandatory helmet use and restrictions on where these vehicles can be operated. The California Highway Patrol and local law enforcement would collaborate to develop educational programs promoting safe and compliant use of these vehicles in off-road areas. Additionally, California’s Division of Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation would work with the CHP to establish guidelines for using eMotos in designated state recreation zones.
While the bill would bring clarity to the legal status of Sur Ron-style e-bikes, they would still be prohibited from public roadways. Instead, they would be permitted on public off-road trails, aligning with their original purpose. This move aims to address safety concerns and enforcement difficulties resulting from the ambiguous classification of these bikes, which exceed electric bicycle regulatory limits but are not designed for street-legal use.
By creating a distinct legal classification for eMotos, California seeks to enhance rider safety, eliminate confusion, and streamline law enforcement efforts in managing the growing popularity of electric mobility solutions. This clarity could help prevent misuse on public streets and sidewalks, which has become a growing concern in many cities.
In conclusion, the move to classify these bikes as off-highway vehicles is a step in the right direction to ensure they are ridden in appropriate settings. While street-legal versions exist for those who wish to ride similar vehicles on urban streets, the majority of pedal-less electric motorbikes are designed for off-road use and should be restricted to those environments. This legislation provides much-needed clarity and direction for the growing eMoto industry in California.
