File photo: Lafayette PD
Parents “admonished…they could be cited for child endangerment”
By Lafayette Police Department
On Thursday, May 28, 2026, a Lafayette PD Officer attempted to stop and educate juveniles recklessly riding e-motorcycles (not street-legal) in the downtown area. In two different incidents, the juveniles refused to stop and sped away doing wheelies. Due to the public safety concerns, no pursuit was initiated. After reviewing the incident and speaking with witnesses, the officer identified all three juveniles. The officer later met with the juveniles and their parents to discuss their riding behavior and to educate all parties that e-motorcycles are not street legal. The officer cited all three juveniles for CVC 12500(a) – Unlicensed Driver. The parents were admonished that if their child is caught riding these again, they could be cited for child endangerment.
Here are two recent incidents highlighting the danger of these electric motorcycles:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yaBKm_cTRYE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qQKL_NE5h0
Remember: Unregistered electric motorcycles are not street legal.
Learn How to Choose an Electric Bike at https://www.rei.com/…/exper…/how-to-choose-an-ebike.html
Source: Pleasant Hill PD
Electric Bike vs. Electric Motorcycle (CA law)
Class 1 E-Bike: pedal assist only, no throttle, max 20 mph
Class 2 E-Bike: pedal assist plus throttle, max 20 mph
Class 3 E-Bike: pedal assist only, max 28 mph (helmets required, no riders under 16)
Maximum 750 Watts.
Electric Motorcycle: Anything exceeding these specs (no pedals, higher speeds) requires registration, insurance, and a motorcycle license for road use.
Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV): Models such as Sur-Ron and Talaria electric motorcycles are designed only for off-road use.
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