Taylor,
This is my first post/reply. I am also quite concerned about the possiblity of being pulled over and cited when I start riding my new Whizzer. I've had no problems however with my Charger electric assist bicycle, even on bike trails marked "NO BICYLES WITH MOTORS" Federal Law:SR1156 and H.R. 727 offers the freedom to use an electric bike on public roads and bike trails to people in every state.
What I have done: First I visited our local DMV office and picked up the 2008 California Motorcycle Handbook. I copied the applicable regulations and put them in my wallet.
Quoted excerps: "Motorized Bicycles"
There are two definitions of motorized bicycle (moped)
Vehicle Code 406[a]
. . . .a two or three-wheeled device capable of no more than 30 mph. . .
. . . .fully operative pedals for human propulsion. . . .
. . . .an internal combustion engine producing less than two gross brake
horsepower and an automatic transmission
Vehicle Code 406
. . . .a vehicle with pedals and an electric motor (not more than 1000 watts
which cannot be driven at speeds of more than 20mph on level ground even if
assisted by human power
If you operate a motorized bicycle (electric, sic) which meets the definition of
VC406, you
*must be 16 years of age or older.
*must wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet
*are exempt from the motor vehicle financial resposibility, driver license,
and moped plate reqirements
The above is VERY important, because by possible inference (only 406 is
referenced, with no reference to406[a]) should you be operating an
internal combustion engine, you may be required to
meet permit and license reqirements referenced in Section12804.9 of the vehicle
code. Meaning?. . . .a Class M2 license may be required. . . . there is some
vagueness here, i.e., a lack of explitcitness{the term MOPED is used loosely,
refering to both and either/or gasoline or electric;for example: "You may ride a
moped in bicycle lane at a reasonable speed."}
I understand for sure that the
operator will be required to apply for a licence plate and remit $18.00 to the DMV.
Insurance is another thing and I agree that without a VIN # a person cannot
obtain insurance (substantiated today by retired Roseville motorcycle officer,
friend.
The issue of lights is referred to only, as far as I can tell, to "motorcycles", e.g.,
headlights with high and low beam, tailights, brake lights and turn signals.
Again, the same with TWO mirrors.
Hope you beat the rap.
Victor
