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Electric Bike Blog

E-Bike Rules in San Diego, California

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, have become a popular transportation option in many cities, including San Diego, California. E-bikes offer a convenient and environmentally friendly way to get around, and can be especially useful for people who live in hilly areas or for those who may have difficulty pedaling a traditional bicycle.

In San Diego, e-bikes are regulated by the California Vehicle Code and are classified into three categories based on their maximum motor-assisted speed:

  • Class 1 e-bikes: These e-bikes have a maximum motor-assisted speed of 20 mph and can be used on any bike path or bike lane. They are also allowed on any road where the speed limit is 35 mph or less.
  • Class 2 e-bikes: These e-bikes have a maximum motor-assisted speed of 20 mph, but can also be powered by pedaling. They are allowed on any bike path or bike lane, as well as on any road where the speed limit is 35 mph or less.
  • Class 3 e-bikes: These e-bikes have a maximum motor-assisted speed of 28 mph and can only be used on bike paths or bike lanes, or on any road where the speed limit is 35 mph or less if there is no bike path or lane available.

It is important for e-bike riders to be aware of these classification rules and to choose the appropriate type of e-bike for the roads and paths they will be using. Riding an e-bike that is not appropriate for the roadway or path can be dangerous and can also result in fines and penalties.

In addition to these classification rules, e-bike riders in San Diego must also follow all the same rules as regular bike riders, including wearing a helmet if under the age of 18 and using hand signals when turning. E-bike riders should also be aware of their surroundings and ride defensively to ensure their own safety and the safety of others.

One of the main benefits of e-bikes is that they are environmentally friendly and can help reduce traffic congestion and pollution in cities. However, it is important for e-bike riders to be responsible and considerate of other road users. E-bike riders should never ride on sidewalks or pedestrian paths, as this can be dangerous for pedestrians and can also result in fines.

E-bike riders should also be mindful of their speed and should never exceed the maximum motor-assisted speed for their class of e-bike. Riding at high speeds can be dangerous and can also result in penalties.

In San Diego, e-bike riders are required to have a valid driver's license or a special permit in order to operate an e-bike on public roads. However, e-bikes are allowed on bike paths and bike lanes without any special licensing requirements.

It is important for e-bike riders in San Diego to familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations regarding e-bike use in the city. By following the rules and being considerate of other road users, e-bike riders can help ensure the safety of themselves and others and can also help promote the responsible use of e-bikes in the community.

Overall, e-bikes can be a convenient and environmentally friendly transportation option in San Diego, as long as riders are aware of and follow the rules and regulations governing their use. By following the rules and being considerate of other road users, e-bike riders can help ensure the safety of themselves and others and can also help promote the responsible use of e-bikes in the community.

Here's a graphic that summarizes the requirements.

California eBike Requirements

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Stromer ST3 or Stromer ST5?

So, how much better are the new Stromers? We love our Stromer electric bikes and have long commuted on ST2s. Now, the time has come for a new platform. Come along and learn about the key differences between the new ST3 and ST5.

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Group Ride! Tues, May 16th, 2017 @ 4:30pm

Rider Safety Visibility Ride. 

We look forward to having as many participants come together for cycling safety, environmental justice, and active living. We expect media to be there to broadcast the importance of biking in advance of Bike To Work Day. Knog Lights, Safety Skin and more will hand out swag to participants. All levels of riders are invited! 

Meet up at North Park Main Street. 3939 Iowa Street, San Diego, CA 92104
Ride to Electric Bike Central in Little Italy for snacks and drinks.
Return to North Park Main Street and proceed to ChuckAlek Biergarten (3139 University Ave) for post-ride get together.

Confirmed attendees: Climate Action Campaign, staff and members; Cong. Scott Peters office; assembly member Todd Gloria staff, NPMS staff and supporters, Electric Bike Central and Friends

Organized by SD Sports Collective. 858-250-9317
Sponsored by Stromer

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Stromer Demo and Warehouse Sale!

Stromer USA will soon be opening its doors for a very special event!

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Custom Trikes for San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tours

Electric Bike Central hired to build custom electric trikes for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s tours that debuted this July.

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Black Friday for Electric Bikes

Ride This Fall or Layaway for the Holidays! Great deals on our in-stock bikes!

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One Year, No Fill-Ups

Customer Mike is all about alternative transportation.

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Summer of Stromer!

Stromer Sale!

Effective immediately through the end of September 2014! See details on how to save up to $550!

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We are now a Stromer dealer!

Electric Bike Central is thrilled to be an authorized dealer for BMC Stromer!

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Eddie's Ready

This Neo Jet found a happy home and is ready for commuting and cruising South Park!

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Recovery

David is returning to his love of cycling exactly one year after a heart attack threatened his life. #inspired

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Customer Review: Easy Motion Neo Jumper 650B

We received the following email from our customer, a couple days after his purchase of the recently released Neo Jumper 650B with Easy Motion's new 12amp hour battery. "Last weekend, I took the bike out for a 54.5 mile ride, and I still have roughly 25% battery left. Attached are some pictures that I took of the bike on a trail near my house."

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