Published on July 15, 2024

Those who have walked The Strand, or pretty much anywhere in the South Bay, have noticed a spike in the number of people riding electric bikes. They’ve become a popular mode of transportation, particularly among teens in the South Bay, but many are raising alarm over some riders’ failure to adhere to the rules of the road and their reckless riding styles.  

"They force people into the curb. They'll run you over. If you have a dog, you better pull your dog in because they'll just run right by it," Lory Barra, a Hermosa Beach resident, told NBC4 News back in May. 

This has led local law enforcement agencies to step up enforcement of laws regulating e-bikes.  

“To be clear, we are committed to a safe beach community and safe operation of e-bikes. we are also committed to investigating any crimes committed by adults or juveniles to the fullest extent of the law,” said Manhattan Beach Police Chief Rachel Johnson in a video posted to the department’s Instagram account following cries from residents about risky riding by teens.  

Dr. Genevieve Hasek of Torrance Memorial Urgent Care notes a rise in e-bike injuries, emphasizing the importance of responsible riding. Common injuries include fractures, head injuries, lacerations, and concussions. Dr. Hasek stresses that both parents and teens must ensure safe e-bike usage, maintaining low speeds, wearing helmets, and staying aware of surroundings, especially on busy roads like Sepulveda Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway. 

“We know younger people tend to engage in more risky behaviors and we’re seeing the results of that in our urgent care,” Dr. Hasek said. “Failing to follow the rules can have some very serious consequences.” 

E-Bike Safety Laws 

The Torrance Police Department wants riders to remember the following: 

  • Riding in Groups: Maximum of two riders abreast 

  • Riding on Sidewalks: Prohibited in business districts and near schools, churches, recreation centers, and playgrounds; yield to pedestrians 

  • Bicycle Paths: Use designated bike paths, not roadways 

  • Dismount in Crosswalks: Riders must dismount to cross 

  • Parking: No parking on streets; use bike racks or sidewalks without obstructing pedestrians 

For more on bicycle safety, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website on bicycle safety. 

Torrance PD says there are three classes of e-bikes.  

Class 1 E-Bike  

  • Low-speed, pedal-assisted, equipped with a motor aiding only when the rider is pedaling 

  • Motor stops assisting at 20 mph. 

Class 2 E-Bike  

  • Low-speed, throttle-assisted, equipped with a motor to propel bicycle even when rider is not pedaling. 

  • Motor is NOT capable of aiding when 20 mph is reached. 

Class 3 E-Bike  

  • Low-speed, pedal-assisted, equipped with a motor and speedometer that aids only when pedaling 

  • Motor stops assisting at 28 mph. 

  • Must be 16 years old or older and wear a bicycle safety helmet. 

 Graphic if 3 different types of electric bike classifications.

Graphic courtesy Torrance Police Department 

Safety Tips to Prevent Bike Accidents 

  • Be aware of your surroundings. 

  • Stop and look both ways before entering the roadway. 

  • Wait for motorists to stop completely before crossing the street. 

  • Ensure both feet can touch the ground when seated. 

  • Check brakes and tire inflation. 

  • Avoid wearing headphones; stay alert. 

  • Walk your bike across crosswalks. 

  • Check driveways before crossing. 

  • Wear reflective or bright clothing and use bike reflectors. 

  • Keep both hands on handlebars unless signaling. 

  • Tuck and tie laces and pant legs. 

  • Choose routes with less vehicle traffic. 

  • Always wear a properly fitted helmet. 

 

By following these guidelines and adhering to local laws, e-bike riders can significantly reduce their risk of accidents and injuries.