As students gear up for back-to-school season, Sacramento County expects to see an increase in kids and teens riding bicycles and e-bikes. Whether they’re commuting to school, meeting up with friends or enjoying the American River Parkway, now is a great time for young riders and their parents to review the rules of the road and the trails.
The message is simple: Ride Smart. Ride Safe. Ride Free. Know your ride, know your classification, know the rules, and make smart choices that help you enjoy the freedom of riding.
First, know what you're riding
Not every electric two-wheeler is an e-bike. California recognizes three classes of electric bicycles, and knowing the difference is especially important when riding on trails.
Class 1 e-bikes provide electric assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
Class 2 e-bikes have a throttle that can propel the bike without pedaling, and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
Class 3 e-bikes provide electric assistance only while the rider is pedaling and can assist up to 28 mph. Class 3 e-bikes are not permitted in Regional Parks facilities, including the American River Parkway and Dry Creek Parkway trails. Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike.
State law requires anyone under 18 to wear a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet when riding on public roads, bikeways or public bicycle paths and trails.
E-motorcycles, sometimes called e-Motos, are different from e-bikes altogether. A qualifying e-Moto is an electric motorcycle, with two wheels, handlebars, a straddle seat and no pedals. These vehicles are subject to additional licensing and registration requirements and are not permitted on the Parkway trail.
A simple rule of thumb: If it doesn't have fully operable pedals, it's not an e-bike.
Parents can help by looking at their child's bike before they head out and making sure they know what type of e-bike they are riding, how fast it can go and where it can legally be ridden.
Ride Smart: Know your ride. Know the rules.
The Jedediah Smith Memorial Multi-use Trail along the American River Parkway is a popular destination for cyclists, pedestrians, runners, skaters and equestrians. With many different types of users sharing the trail, knowing and following the rules helps keep everyone safe.
For cyclists riding on the Parkway:
- Follow the 15 mph speed limit. The trail is designed to accommodate many types of users, so riders should slow down and be prepared for changing conditions and other trail users.
- Pass on the left. Give a verbal warning, such as “On your left,” before passing another cyclist or trail user.
- Ride single file. Leave space between riders and allow others to pass safely.
- Stay alert. Keep your eyes on the trail and watch for pedestrians, other cyclists, animals and vehicles crossing the trail.
- Pull completely off the trail when stopping. Stopping in the middle of the trail can create a hazard for others.
- Stay on permitted trails. Outside of the designated off-paved cycling areas, bicycles are not permitted on non-paved trails on the Parkway.
- Wear a helmet. California law requires riders under 18 to wear a properly fitted helmet when riding on public roads, bikeways and public bicycle paths and trails. Helmets are recommended for riders of all ages.
- Use lights when riding after dark. Riders should make sure their bicycles are properly equipped and visible to others.
The Parkway's 15 mph speed limit applies to all riders, regardless of how quickly their bike is capable of traveling. For example, a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike may be capable of reaching 20 mph, but riders must not exceed the Parkway's 15 mph trail speed limit – the same goes for traditional bicycles.
Class 3 e-bikes and other motorized vehicles, including e-motorcycles, are prohibited in all Sacramento County Regional Parks trails and park facilities.
Ride Safe: Wear a helmet. Stay alert. Ride the speed limit.
A safe ride starts before you ever get on the bike. Riders should wear a properly fitted helmet, stay aware of their surroundings and follow the posted speed limit. On a busy multi-use trail, a few extra seconds of caution can make a big difference.
Parents can help by taking a few minutes before the school year begins to review their child's bike, make sure it is properly equipped and talk about where and how they can safely ride.
“E-bikes can be a great way for young people to get around and enjoy the outdoors, but with that freedom comes responsibility,” said Liz Bellas, Sacramento County Regional Parks Director. “We want young riders and their families to enjoy our trails while making smart choices that keep themselves and everyone around them safe.”
Ride Free: Enjoy the ride.
For many young people, riding a bike or e-bike is about more than getting from one place to another. It’s a way to spend time with friends, get outside, explore the Parkway and enjoy a little independence.
Smart and safe riding helps make that freedom possible. When riders know their bikes, understand where they can ride and follow the rules, they can ride with confidence and enjoy the freedom to keep exploring.
So before you head out this school year, remember: Ride Smart. Ride Safe. Ride Free. Know your ride, know the rules, make safe choices and have fun.
For more information about multi-use trail rules and regulations, visit Sacramento County Regional Parks' Multi-use Trail Rules and Regulations. For tips on safely riding bicycles on roads, bike lanes and sidewalks, visit Sacramento County's Active Transportation webpage.