E-Bike Information

Selma Unified School District and the Selma Police Department are partnering to help students, families, and community members understand e-bike laws and practice safe riding habits. E-bikes can provide students with a convenient way to travel, but they can also reach higher speeds than traditional bicycles. Riders must understand how their e-bike operates, follow traffic laws, and make responsible decisions every time they ride. We encourage parents and guardians to review this information with their children before allowing them to ride an e-bike.

 

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Know Your E-Bike
Under California law, an e-bike has fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. E-bikes manufactured since 2017 must have a permanent label identifying the bike’s classification, maximum assisted speed, and motor wattage.

Class 1: A pedal-assist e-bike that provides assistance only while the rider is pedaling. Motor assistance stops at 20 mph.

Class 2: An e-bike that may be powered by a throttle without pedaling. Motor assistance stops at 20 mph.

Class 3: A pedal-assist e-bike that provides assistance up to 28 mph. Riders must be at least 16 years old.

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Helmet Requirements

Riders under age 18 must wear a properly fitted and fastened helmet while riding a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike. Helmets are required for all Class 3 e-bike riders, regardless of age. We strongly encourage every rider of any age to wear a helmet on every ride.

 

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Rules of the Road
E-bike riders must follow applicable traffic laws, signs, and signals. Riders should:

• Stop at red lights and stop signs.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic.
• Yield to pedestrians and vehicles when required.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic and obey all traffic signs and signals.
• Avoid riding on sidewalks or in areas where bicycles are prohibited.
• Never carry a passenger unless the e-bike is specifically designed for more than one rider.
• Keep your eyes and attention on the road. Avoid distractions such as using a cell phone while riding.
• Use a white front light and proper reflectors when riding after dark.
• Ride at a safe speed based on traffic, visibility, and road conditions.

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Parents and Guardians: What You Can Do

Before your child rides an e-bike:

Confirm the bike’s classification and maximum assisted speed. Make sure the bike has not been modified to exceed legal speed or power limits. Provide a properly fitted helmet and require it on every ride. Practice riding, stopping, signaling and navigating intersections together. Establish clear rules regarding passengers, phones, nighttime riding and approved routes. Regularly inspect the brakes, tires, lights and battery.

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Drivers: Help Keep Riders Safe

Everyone in the Selma community has a role in preventing crashes. Drivers should:

• Slow down near schools, neighborhoods and intersections.
• Look carefully for riders before turning or opening a vehicle door.
• Allow adequate space when passing.
• Avoid distractions.
• Expect more student riders before and after school.

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Remember

Wear a helmet. Follow traffic laws. Stay alert. Ride responsibly.

Safe streets require cooperation from riders, families, drivers, schools, and law enforcement. By working together, we can help prevent serious injuries and keep Selma students safe.

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Sources

For more information about California e-bike laws and safety, visit:

1. California Highway Patrol: Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety
2. California Highway Patrol: Electric Bicycle Classifications and Helmet Requirements
3. California DMV: Bicyclist and Pedestrian Safety Guide
4. California Vehicle Code §§ 21212–21213 (Helmet and Class 3 E-Bike Requirements)