Electric motorcycles are illegal on city streets, SDPD says | cbs8.com

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SAN DIEGO — San Diego police are cracking down on the illegal use of electric motorcycles on city streets, issuing a stern warning to riders and citing serious consequences for violators. The department is taking to social media to remind residents that e-motorcycles are not street legal in the city of San Diego.

According to a post made by the San Diego Police Department, brands such as Sur-Ron and Talaria are being cited and towed across the city.

Ray Belden, owner of La Jolla E-Bike and Skate, explained some differences between e-bikes and e-motorcycles.

"The electric motorcycles that you see out there- they are capable of riding at highway speeds. E-bikes are not," Belden said. He further clarified, "Electric motorcycles are most of them right now, [they] are going to be qualifying for off-road use only."

Consequences for riding an e-motorcycle illegally can be severe. The SDPD warns that riders may be cited for unregistered vehicles, driving without a license or insurance, riding on public roads, bike lanes, or sidewalks, and e-motorcycles will be impounded. Parents and employers can also face citations for allowing unlicensed minors to operate an electric motorcycle on public roads.

It's important to note that electric motorcycles cannot be made street-legal. However, they can be used in designated OHV areas if riders follow specific protocols.

"If you're going to take it off-road, you do have to get that green sticker from the DMV, so you still have to go down and register it," Belden explained.

As e-bikes continue to grow in popularity in San Diego, authorities are emphasizing the importance of understanding the distinction between e-bikes and e-motorcycles to ensure public safety and compliance with local laws.