California signs SB 1167: e-motos can't be sold as e-bikes from 2027
What does California SB 1167 change for e-bikes?
California's SB 1167 bars selling or marketing faster or more powerful electric two-wheelers as e-bikes from January 1, 2027, and keeps e-bikes capped at 750 W. Two companion bills set a 10 mph sidewalk limit and require speedometers on new Class 2 e-bikes from 2029.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed SB 1167, by Sen. Catherine Blakespear, on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, along with two other e-bike bills.
Starting January 1, 2027, devices that exceed California's e-bike limits cannot be marketed as e-bikes. They are classed as electric mopeds (under 3,000 W, up to 30 mph) or motor-driven cycles, which need registration, a plate and an M1 or M2 license on public roads. E-bikes stay capped at 750 W.
Sellers of electric mopeds and motor-driven cycles must state in all advertising that they are motor vehicles subject to registration, licensing and insurance. E-bikes must carry labels showing class, top assisted speed, motor wattage and brand.
AB 2346 sets a 10 mph speed limit for e-bikes on sidewalks and requires Class 2 e-bikes sold from January 1, 2029 to have speedometers. AB 2595 lets San Mateo County cities ban riders under 12 from Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes in a 2027-2031 pilot.