A Motorized Bicycle

406. (a) A "motorized bicycle" or "moped" is any two-wheeled or three-wheeled device having fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power, or having no pedals if powered solely by electrical energy, and an automatic transmission and a motor which produces less than 2 gross brake horsepower and is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour on level ground.(b) A "motorized bicycle" is also a device that has fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power and has an electric motor that meets all of the following requirements:(1) Has a power output of not more than 1,000 watts.(2) Is incapable of propelling the device at a speed of more than 20 miles per hour on ground level.(3) Is incapable of further increasing the speed of the device when human power is used to propel the motorized bicycle faster than 20 miles per hour.(4) Every manufacturer of motorized bicycles, as defined in this subdivision, shall provide a disclosure to buyers that advises buyers that their existing insurance policies may not provide coverage for these bicycles and that they should contact their insurance company or insurance agent to determine if coverage is provided.(c) The disclosure required under paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) shall meet both of the following requirements:(1) The disclosure shall be printed in not less than 14-point boldface type on a single sheet of paper that contains no information other than the disclosure.(2) The disclosure shall include the following language in capital letters:"YOUR INSURANCE POLICIES MAY NOT PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR ACCIDENTS INVOLVING THE USE OF THIS BICYCLE. TO DETERMINE IF COVERAGE IS PROVIDED YOU SHOULD CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY OR AGENT."Amended Sec. 1, Ch. 804, Stats. 1995. Effective January 1, 1996. Supersedes Sec. 2, Ch. 342.California Scooter Legislation

 http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/d01/vc406.htm 

 

 

Canada, Europe and the United States have all passed legislation regarding electric bikes. Most jurisdictions recognize these as distinct from existing moped and motorcycle classifications because they are more akin to bicycles than their heavier cousins. 

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

Motorized Bicycle

(Section 406(b) VC)Driver's License not required but rider must be at least 16 years of age.Instruction Permit RequirementsOperator must be at least 15 1/2 years oldOperator must pass automobile written examOperator must pass appropriate endorsement requirements for an M-1 and M-2 endorsementOperator must have completed an approved automobile driver education courseNote: An operator with an instruction permit may not carry passengers, ride after dark or operate a motorcycle on the freeway. 

 

 The California Motorcycle Hand Book can be located at  http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/dl655/dl665mcycle.pdf  

LAWS and gasoline scooters

Insurance is not required for Mopeds, but wise, very inexpensive and easy to attain, so check into it.. 

Please be sure and check with your state regarding scooter laws before making your purchase, as we do not accept any returns on  scooters because you've suddenly found out that your purchase doesn’t comply with your state scooter laws after the fact.Vehicles that are assembled or used cannot be returned. Like Some Mopeds, Dirt Bikes and ATVs cannot be accepted or return because the federal regulations prohibit transport of vehicles that have been fueled. For some scooters the gas tank can be emptied and washed before shipping.Because gasoline is hazardous and flammable material, gas scooters that have been ridden and parts have been used with gasoline are extremely dangerous, and is prohibited by law to mail. Individuals who send them through mail might face fines and/or imprisonment. If you must ship them back to us, please make sure there is no gasoline remains in the scooters or parts. We are not responsible for any event that is caused by this matter.2-stroke gas engines are banned on or off road, (air/noise pollution). No license or insurance required for 4-stroke gas or electric scooters under 30 mph, but riders on public streets must be at least 16 and must wear proper safety gear, (bicycle helmets and night lighting). Other restrictions as bicycles and "Rules of the Road" apply. Prohibited on roadways posted 35 mph and over without a bicycle lane. No age limit for off-road riding and under the same restrictions as bicycles (sidewalks, pedestrian and bicycle paths). Riders under 16 years old should always be under the supervision of an adult 18 years or older. Local regulations may apply. Most public transportation systems allow electric scooters, but not gas, the same as "Bicycle Rules". Electric (not gas) scooters that can be folded, carried on and held in your lap or under your seat are usually allowed anytime.

 

Safety Clothing

Helmet as mentioned above. If face shield is worn, it must be shatterproofEyeglasses or other eye protectionHigh-top boots or shoes, preferably with steel toe protectionGlovesSnug clothing covering arms and legsBrightly colored clothing and reflectorized material after dark 

 

California Electric Bicycle Law Summary:

A driver's license is not required to drive an electric bicycle.No insurance, registration or license plates are required.Driver shall not operate a motorized bicycle if under 16 years of age.Driver must wear a bicycle helmet.Bicycle must have fully operative pedals.Power output must not be more than 1000 Watt.On level ground must not travel faster than 20mph on motors power only.Electric motor must disengage when brakes are applied or when throttle is released.California Moped Law Summary:An M1/ M2 driver's license or learners permit is required to drive a moped.No insurance or yearly registration are required. Driver must wear a DOT approved motorcycle helmet.An electric moped is not required to have pedals.On level ground must not travel faster than 30mph on motors power only.