CONTACT US

Contact Form

    News Details

    Tips for parents buying a child an e-bike
    • March 20, 2026

    E-bikes are moving fast and local laws, safety measures are trying to catch up

    Police officers and bicycle shop employees alike say that while e-bikes can be a fun way to get around town, there are steps adults should do before and after purchasing one for a child:

    Do research

    • Police officers recommend that parents look into different types of e-bikes, including different classes, and know the difference between a street-legal e-bike and an electric dirt bike, or e-moto, that is not legal on public streets.
    • Steve Dozier, an employee at Wheel World in the San Fernando Valley, recommends Class 1 e-bikes, which are pedal-assisted and max out at 20 mph, for kids. “The ones with throttles, kids don’t need them,” he says. “They tear around and don’t get any fitness.”
    • Police and e-bike shop employees say parents should vet products if purchasing on Amazon or other websites to ensure they adhere to legal speed limitations for California.

    Teach the rules of the road

    • Common violations police officers see are riding the wrong way, ignoring posted signs or going without helmets.
    •  Parents can teach children the rules of the road while driving.
    • Youths can take a training or safety course; parents are encouraged to  watch.
    • Some cities, counties and police agencies offer training courses.

    Monitor behaviors

    • Some e-bike motors can be altered through phone apps, allowing them to reach speeds faster than legally allowed.
    • Riders can have their e-bikes impounded by law enforcement if they are seen riding unsafely.
    • Sgt. Mike Thomas of the Huntington Beach Police Department recommends parents ride on a bicycle near their e-biking children at first.

    ​ Orange County Register 

    News