E-bike safety tips for families

Published on August 12, 2025

Walking e-bikes

Electric bikes (e-bikes) are growing in popularity across Menlo Park, especially with younger students looking for a quick ride to school. But with greater speed and weight come new safety responsibilities. Check out Menlo Park’s Local and Regional Transportation Options guide which provides information on e-bike safety.

Whether your child already rides an e-bike or is asking for one, here are some safety tips every family should know.

Choose the right e-bike

Not all e-bikes are the same and they are categorized into three classes:

  • Class 1: Pedal assist only, up to 20 mph
  • Class 2: Throttle and pedal assist, up to 20 mph
  • Class 3: Pedal assist only, up to 28 mph (legal only for riders 16+)
    Class I and Class 2 e-bikes are the most common and don’t have a minimum age requirement under California law. Nevertheless, parents should think carefully about the rider’s size, skill level and ability to manage the bike’s speed and power.
Maintain your e-bike

Regular maintenance keeps your child safer and extends the life of the bike. Before every ride:

  • Test the brakes
  • Check tire pressure
  • Make sure the lights and battery are working
  • Tighten loose parts
Teach street smarts

Many e-bike crashes happen because of unsafe rider behavior such as riding too fast, not stopping at intersections or riding on sidewalks.

  • Help your child build good habits and understand that riding an e-bike is often more like driving than biking.
  • For new riders, consider taking a free e-bike safety class from local organizations like the Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition.

Not sure if e-bikes are the right fit? First, review some additional safety tips shared in the August 2023 Menlo Park SRTS newsletter. You’ll find safe walking routes, shuttles, bike maps, carpooling info and more.

E-bikes can be a fun, fast and eco-friendly way to get to school, but safety comes first. If your child rides an e-bike, make sure they know the rules, understand their responsibilities and ride smart every day.

If you have questions regarding e-bike safety, please email SafeRoutestoSchool@menlopark.gov.

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