Back in the early 80's with my first motorized bicycle I felt like a pioneer. Now days in California, it is easy to feel like a rebel.
Must have motorcycle license.
Must be registered.
Most all these motors are illegal in that they are not CARB approved.
Here we try to say the motor is only an assist, and therefore not a motor vehicle. The state says "NO".
You need to take a drivers test and your motorized bicycle must be insured. I have never personally looked into it but have been told you can not get insurance on these motorized bicycles.
I would not want to ask about, turn signals, horn, stop light or proper head and tail lights.
I have a motorcycle license which I have had for years, but I think the state is wrong. I think they should be looked on as bicycles. We who assemble and ride these motorized bicycles should also build and ride them as a bicycle and not try to make them into a motorcycle.
The exception to the above is an electric bike with peddles and not go over 20 mph is exempt from all the above.
Well, after writing this, I see I am also a rebel. Most my bikes are not CARB approved ( the Golden Eagle With the japanese 35cc motor may be the only exception). One bicycle will do almost 70 mph, (so much for the no motorcycle statement) and none are registered. I do ride them as a fast bicycle (18-25 mph),and obey traffic laws and try not to up set people with the way I ride ( I don't want to get hit with a shovel).
In the 28 or so years that I hae been tinkering and riding these motorized bicycles, no police officer has ever stopped or even questioned me. I saw a couple look my way and smile. I have been flagged down by many people just to learn more about this interesting little machine and how they could get one. I suppose being a rebel under some control is not that bad.
Well, those are my thoughts, right or wrong.
Bill Snow