The Â鶹ÊÓƵ (IUSD), the Irvine Police Department (IPD) and the City of Irvine continue to receive reports of students riding e-bikes recklessly, including riding in lanes of traffic, running into pedestrians on sidewalks, swarming pedestrians and runners and other risky actions that have resulted in serious injuries.
As our educational partners, we encourage our parents and families to have conversations with their child about riding responsibly and with caution, to help keep themselves and all people in our City safe.
While discussing safety measures with your child, please keep in mind the following e-bike safety procedures from IPD:
Know E-Bike Classes
Before your child begins riding an e-bike, know the various classes and which bike is a fit for your child's age and skill level.
- Class 1 E-Bikes: Pedal assist only, maximum speed 20 mph
- Class 2 E-Bikes: Throttle-assist, maximum speed 20 mph
- Class 3 E-Bikes: Pedal assist only, maximum speed 28 mph, equipped with a speedometer (16 years or older, helmets required regardless of age).
Do not allow e-Bike Modifications
Students may be tempted to modify their e-bikes to increase the speed by purchasing a kit online or having a friend modify the bike for them. This can be extremely dangerous. Many e-bikes are not equipped to handle higher speeds, and the braking systems may not be sufficient.
Require Safe Riding
- Stick to Safe Paths: Ride only in bike lanes, trails, or sidewalks—never in traffic—and assume drivers may not see you.
- Ride Responsibly: Avoid racing, swarming, cutting in front of cars, or taunting drivers.
- Be Considerate: Slow down in crowded areas, signal when passing, and respect pedestrians and other riders.
- Stay Visible: Wear reflective gear and use lights at night; stick to well-lit paths.
- Follow Rules and Maintain Your Bike: Wear a helmet, obey, and regularly check brakes, tires, and lights.
- Talk About Safety: Have ongoing conversations about risks and expectations to reinforce responsible riding. Make your expectations for safe riding clear.
Helmet Safety
Per guidance from the Irvine Police Department:
- Helmets are mandatory for all riders under 18 and for everyone on a Class 3 E-Bike.
- Helmets should be two finger widths above your eyebrows to the bottom of the helmet.
- One finger should be able to fit under the chin strap.
- Be sure your helmet has been approved by the Snell Memorial Foundation or the American National Standards Institute.
For more information and resources, please visit our e-Vehicle Safety page.