New E-Bike Rules Meant To Keep Escondido Riders And Neighbors Safe

ESCONDIDO, CA — The Escondido Police Department has announced updated rules for e-bikes and bicycles, focusing on helmets, age limits and tougher enforcement.

Here are some of the rules:

• Kids under 12 are not allowed to ride e-bikes.
• Teens 12 to 15 can ride only slower e-bikes.
• Riders 16 and older can ride any type.
• Helmets are required for everyone under 18 and for anyone on the fastest models, and they must be properly fitted and buckled.

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Police say riders must stop at lights and stop signs, follow the speed limit, watch out for people walking or driving and follow park and trail rules.

Break the rules and you could face fines: $50 for a first ticket, $100 for a second and $200 after that. Reckless riding or not using due care can lead to your bike being taken.

The department also warned that some high‑powered electric two‑wheelers without pedals are not e-bikes. Those are more like motorcycles and may be illegal on city streets, need lights, a driver's license, registration and insurance. Passengers are allowed only if the bike has a proper passenger seat.

Residents are encouraged to learn before they ride. A free safety course for all ages is listed on the California Highway Patrol's website, and more details are listed on the Escondido Police Department's website.

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