Electric bicycles.

Senator Blakespear's electric bicycle legislation introduces new labeling, classification, and reporting requirements for California's growing e-bike market. The bill updates the state's three-tier classification system while mandating more detailed product identification and incident documentation.

Starting July 2026, manufacturers must apply permanent markings to e-bike frames displaying the brand name, manufacturer, classification number, top assisted speed, and motor wattage. The legislation maintains existing speed and power limits - 20 mph for Class 1 and 2 e-bikes, 28 mph for Class 3 models, and a maximum motor output of 750 watts. Peace officers must now document all frame marking information when reporting e-bike crashes and injuries.

The bill also addresses non-compliant vehicles by prohibiting the sale of e-bikes capable of speeds above 28 mph or modifications that would exceed legal limits. Beginning January 2026, retailers and manufacturers must notify customers who purchased e-bikes in the previous five years if their vehicles no longer meet updated state definitions. These notices must explain any new registration or licensing requirements that may apply if the bike now falls under a different vehicle classification.