Juvenile Cited in E-Motorcycle Incident
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, at approximately 4:52 p.m., officers attempted to contact a juvenile who was running stop signs while riding an electric motorcycle near East Washington Place. The juvenile was observed riding recklessly with a passenger seated on the rear of the e-motorcycle.
Electric motorcycles such as Sur-ron, Talaria, Segway, and E-Ride Pro are off-road vehicles and are not legal to operate on public streets, sidewalks, parking lots, or shopping centers. These vehicles are NOT e-bikes and are subject to the same laws as gas-powered motorcycles, which includes obtaining a license/registration/insurance, and helmet regulations.
When officers attempted a traffic stop, the juvenile sped through another stop sign and was nearly struck by an oncoming vehicle. After hitting a speed bump, the rider lost control and crashed the e-motorcycle. The juvenile driver was transported to Petaluma Valley Hospital with minor injuries, while the passenger remained unharmed.
We are grateful that both the driver and passenger are okay, but reckless riding-- especially around vehicles and pedestrians could very easily end in tragedy.
The e-motorcycle was towed on scene and the juvenile was cited for the following:
- Reckless Driving (CVC 2310)
- Unlicensed Driver (CVC 12500)
- No Proof of Financial Responsibility (CVC 16028)
- No Helmet (CVC 27802)
- Passenger Not Properly Seated (CVC 21712)
Parents are strongly urged to reconsider purchasing these vehicles for their children or to allow them to be ridden in public spaces. Juveniles operating these vehicles face serious safety risks, and parents may be held financially and legally responsible for violations, injuries, or property damage.
We encourage our community to research any electric rideable before purchase and ensure their children understand where and how devices can be used legally and safely.
