California AB1557 amends the Vehicle Code to redefine electric bicycles and establish new safety standards.

California AB1557 amends the Vehicle Code to redefine electric bicycles into three classes based on motor power and speed capabilities. Class 1 bicycles are pedal-assisted and cannot exceed 16 mph. Class 2 bicycles are throttle-assisted and also cannot exceed 16 mph. Class 3 bicycles are pedal-assisted and can exceed 16 mph but not 20 mph. The bill mandates that riders under 16 wear helmets when operating class 3 bicycles. It also prohibits the sale of class 1 and 2 bicycles with motors exceeding 250 watts.

California AB1557 amends the Vehicle Code to redefine electric bicycles and establish new safety standards.

California AB1557 amends the Vehicle Code to redefine electric bicycles into three classes based on motor power and speed capabilities. Class 1 bicycles are pedal-assisted and cannot exceed 16 mph. Class 2 bicycles are throttle-assisted and also cannot exceed 16 mph. Class 3 bicycles are pedal-assisted and can exceed 16 mph but not 20 mph. The bill mandates that riders under 16 wear helmets when operating class 3 bicycles. It also prohibits the sale of class 1 and 2 bicycles with motors exceeding 250 watts.