Manhattan Beach Steps Up Enforcement Of E-Bike Operators

MANHATTAN BEACH, CA — In an effort to bolster the safety of e-bike riders and other drivers, the Manhattan Beach Police Department and the City of Manhattan Beach will begin enforcing local and state laws in regards to electric bicycles starting tomorrow [Saturday, Jan. 30], according to a news release.

The laws that will be enforced include but are 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. E-bikes are allowed on the bike path when propelled by human power.

California designates three classes of e-bikes:

• 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.
• Class 2: Bicycles equipped with a throttle-actuated motor, that cease to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph.
• 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.

According to the news release, "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."

While the city and MBPD "encourage our residents to get out and exercise safely," to that end, they'd appreciate it if parents and e-bike drivers educate themselves "on the laws of electric bicycles in California as well as the related Manhattan Beach Municipal Codes." Resources are available online at www.citymb.info and www.PeopleForBikes.org.