January 29, 2021
Over the last several months, electric bikes (e-bikes) have become very popular throughout the South Bay and Manhattan Beach. With the popularity of these e-bikes, there have been some safety concerns and violations of the law. The Manhattan Beach Police Department and the City of Manhattan Beach have received several complaints, ranging from kids not wearing helmets to near collisions between pedestrians and e-bike riders.
During these difficult times, the City encourages residents to get out and exercise safely. You can help in this endeavor by educating yourselves and your children on the laws of electric bicycles in California as well as the related Manhattan Beach Municipal Codes. You can find these resources at https://www.citymb.info/ and https://www.peopleforbikes.org/.
Beginning Saturday, January 30, 2021, the Manhattan Beach Police Department will begin enforcing local and state laws in regards to electric bicycles. These will include but not limited to; riding without a helmet, riding on sidewalks, failing to stop at posted stop signs and riding on The Strand or the bike path. As a reminder, only pedestrians are allowed on The Strand and only bicycles propelled by human power are allowed on the bike path.
California designates three classes of e-bikes:
1. Class 1: Bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph.
2. Class 2: Bicycles equipped with a throttle-actuated motor, that cease to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph.
3. Class 3: Bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that cease to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 28 mph.
Helmets are required for all riders of Class 3 e-bikes. Persons under 16 years of age may not ride a Class 3 e-bike (unless as a passenger). There are certain access restrictions for Class 3 e-bike riders.
The Manhattan Beach Police Department believes that the education and subsequent enforcement will enhance the safety of our residents and visitors and protect the quality of life that exists in our community.
