Crime & Safety
SMPD Impounds 12 Electric Bikes Illegal To Ride In The City, Police Say
What looks like an e-bike may in fact be an off-highway vehicle illegal to ride on city streets and bike paths, police said.
SANTA MONICA, CA — Police over the weekend impounded 12 electric bicycles they say are illegal to ride on city streets, sidewalks and bike paths.
"While these electric bikes may look street legal, they are not permitted on public roads, bike paths or sidewalks," the Santa Monica Police Department said in a statement.
The bikes — which police say are classified as off-highway vehicles, not electric bicycles under state law — are in some cases capable of exceeding 40 mph. They were impounded on Saturday, police said.
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"We’re increasing enforcement in response to serious safety concerns and community complaints. If your vehicle doesn’t have pedals or meet California’s e-bike standards, it doesn’t belong on the road," police said.
🏍️ SMPD Impounds 12 Illegal Off-Highway Vehicles 🚨
On Saturday, July 26, SMPD impounded 12 off-highway vehicles. While these electric bikes may look street legal, they are not permitted on public roads, bike paths, or sidewalks.
⚠️ These vehicles:
• Often exceed 40 mph
•… pic.twitter.com/88RevssqSM
— Santa Monica Police (@SantaMonicaPD) July 29, 2025
Find out what's happening in Santa Monicafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
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