E-bikes are gaining popularity with teens and pre-teens as they offer independence, allow longer trips, and can cruise up steep hills. Hauling heavy books and equipment is a lot easier, too. More kids on bikes means fewer cars on the road, which is a benefit for everyone.
No matter what type of e-device your child is riding, a parent or another experienced adult cyclist is advised to ride with their child to teach rules of the road and safe riding skills. Having them take a training course is a great way to help keep them safe.
If your child cannot maintain control, rides unpredictably, or has trouble handling the device in various conditions, it is too soon for them to graduate from their traditional, non-motorized bike or scooter.
Should I Get My Child an E-Bike?
For now, no law prohibits minors from riding Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (those with maximum assist speeds of 20 mph). To operate a Class 3 e-bike, which can provide assisted speeds of up to 28 mph, riders must be at least 16 years of age, although a driver’s license is not required.
It’s also important to know the difference between e-bikes and e-motos, which are essentially mini-motorcycles. E-motos are of particular concern in many cities and school districts.
Parents are advised to assess their child’s cycling skills and to consider their levels of experience and maturity before allowing them to ride an e-bike. More:
- Children under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet on any type of bike/e-bike, scooter, skateboard, or roller skates. (Adults are also legally required to wear a helmet on Class 3 bikes.)
- In most cases, riding any type of bike on sidewalks (including e-bikes) is less safe than riding in the bike lane. Sidewalk riding is not permitted in most places.
- The speed limit on multi-use trails – including all paved East Bay Regional Parks trails – is 15 mph.
- Parents: Be aware that many Class 2 e-bikes can be easily modified after purchase to go faster than 20 mph, allowing tech-savvy kids to travel at speeds unsafe for their level of experience.
- E-bikes are heavier and harder to maneuver than traditional bicycles; it takes longer to stop them at higher speeds.
Should I Get My Child an E-Scooter?
If you’re looking to score big points by giving your child an electric scooter, be aware that California state law requires a driver’s license to operate an e-scooter. This means children younger than 16 cannot legally ride an e-scooter. More:
- Helmets are mandatory for electric scooter riders under the age of 18.
- E-scooters cannot be ridden on sidewalks or multi-use trails – including Iron Horse and Canal Trails.
- The speed limit for scooters in bike lanes is 15 mph.
- Riding tandem, with a buddy, is not allowed.
- E-scooter riders must follow all the same rules of the road as drivers.
