California recently passed Senate Bill 1271 (SB 1271), updating electric bicycle (e-bike) classifications to better define how different types of e-bikes operate. These changes help families make more informed choices about e-bikes for their children and will take effect January 1, 2026. Updated Classifications:

Class 1 E-Bikes (low-speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle)

• Provide assistance only when the rider pedals.
• Motor stops assisting at 20 mph.
• Throttle-only use is not allowed, except for a low-speed "walk-assist" function.

Class 2 E-Bikes (low-speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle)

• May use a throttle without pedaling up to 20 mph.

Class 3 E-Bikes (speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle)

• Provide assistance only when the rider pedals.
• Motor stops assisting at 28 mph.
• Must include a speedometer.
• Throttle-only use is not allowed.

A class 1 or class 3 electric bicycle may have start assistance or a walk mode that propels the electric bicycle on motor power alone, up to a maximum speed of 3.7 miles per hour. Under existing California law, riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike and must wear a helmet.

The following do not qualify as e-bikes:

• Bikes that can be easily modified by the manufacturer to go faster than 20 mph using the motor alone or have more than 750 watts of motor power.
• Bikes that have been modified after purchase to exceed 20 mph on motor power or 750 watts.
• Bikes that have been modified to remove the pedals (they must remain operable to be considered an e-bike).