Beaumont To Begin Regulating E-Bikes, E-Scooters, E-Motos

BEAUMONT, CA — The city of Beaumont is a step away from updating its municipal code to regulate e-bikes, e-scooters, and electric motorcycles that have become increasingly common forms of transportation and recreation.

On Tuesday, the Beaumont City Council is expected to sign off on a new ordinance prohibiting unsafe riding behaviors, including "riding against traffic, failing to yield, carrying passengers on devices not designed for passengers, disregarding traffic or posted signs, racing or stunt riding, unsafe speeds, wheelies or acrobatics around pedestrians or moving vehicles, and operating without lighting or reflectors required by law," according to city documents.

The update comes amid a surge in injuries from crashes involving underage riders on motorized vehicles across Riverside County.

City documents show the proposed Chapter 10.39 of the municipal code would limit sidewalk operation of bikes to 5 mph; prohibit electric off-highway motorcycles on publicly owned streets, sidewalks, rights-of-way, parks, bicycle paths, and trails; require minors to wear properly fitted helmets; and establish strict fines.

Violators face penalties of $500 for a first offense, $1,000 for a second violation within 12 months, and $2,000 for subsequent offenses within a year.

For violations committed by minors, parents or legal guardians may be held financially and legally responsible, according to city documents.

The local effort follows a series of devastating crashes involving motorized bikes in nearby communities.

Earlier this month, a 15-year-old boy illegally riding an off-highway electric motorcycle was severely injured after colliding with a car in Menifee. Police cited the boy's father and issued a stern warning regarding parental responsibility for minors operating unpermitted vehicles on public streets.

Just days later, a hit-and-run driver fatally struck another 15-year-old boy riding an electric motocross-style bike in Menifee.

Under California law, not every electric two-wheeled vehicle qualifies as an e-bike. Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes feature operable pedals, limited motor power and speed restrictions. Vehicles capable of higher speeds or lacking functional pedals are classified as electric motorcycles, requiring licensing, registration, insurance and compliance with street legalities.

Law enforcement officials urge parents and riders to understand state regulations before purchasing or operating motorized bikes, emphasizing that higher speeds significantly elevate the risk of severe injury when traffic laws are ignored or helmets are omitted.

Tuesday's regularly scheduled Beaumont City Council meeting begins at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 550 E. Sixth St.