DATE/TIME: August 17, 2023
INCIDENT: Public Service Advisory – Electric Dirt Bike Information
LOCATION: Rancho Cucamonga
SUMMARY:
The city of Rancho Cucamonga along with Rancho Cucamonga Police Department have experienced an increase in calls for service of subjects riding electric motorcycles on public roadways, bike paths, and horse trails throughout the city. In additional to enforcement stops for observed violations, deputies are working to educate the public on the safe and legal operation of these vehicles. Below are some frequently asked questions reference electric motorcycles:
FAQ’S:
•Why is my vehicle classified as an electric motorcycle? – Per CVC 400(a) and CVC 406(a) electric dirt bikes/motorcycles are defined by the vehicle code as motorcycles and must follow the same registration and operating procedures per the State of California.
•Is my electric dirt bike street legal? - No, most electric dirt bikes are classified (by their manufacturer) as an “off-road only bike.” That means it is not intended for use on paved surfaces, bicycle lanes / paths, or any public roadway. These types of electric motorcycles are designed for use on private property dirt tracks and off-highway-vehicle (OHV) riding areas only.
•Do I need a California driver’s license to operate my electric dirt bike/motorcycle on a public roadway? -Yes, per CVC12500(b), a person must possess a valid California driver’s license with an M-1/M-2 motorcycle endorsement. A citation for CVC12500(b) is classified as a misdemeanor.
•Do I need to register my electric dirt bike/motorcycle with the DMV to operate it on a public roadway? – Yes, per CVC4000(a)(1) any vehicle when operated on a public roadway must have valid registration per the California DMV.
•Can I operate my electric dirt bike/motorcycle on bike paths/sidewalks/walking trails/ horse trails? -No, per state and city ordinances any vehicle classified by the DMV cannot be operated on sidewalks, bike paths, walking trails or horse trails within the city limits of Rancho Cucamonga.
•Can my electric dirt bike/motorcycle be towed if I am found riding it on a public roadway without a valid M-1/M-2 license endorsement or without it being registered? -Yes, per CVC22651(p), VC 23127(a), and CVC22651(o)(1), a peace officer has probable cause to remove the vehicle from the roadway, bike path, or horse trail.
If you have any questions as to whether your electric dirt bike/motorcycle is street legal, please refer to the manufacturer for additional information or contact your local DMV office for registration and licensing requirements.
Refer: Corporal Eric Getts
Station: Rancho Cucamonga Station
Phone No. 909-477-2800
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
