Rules of the Road

Bicyclists and e-bike riders are subject to all the same rules of the road as motorists. Riders who don’t follow the rules are subject to ticketing and fines as defined by the Vehicle or Municipal Code in which they are riding.

Make sure to follow these guidelines:

• Riders 17 years and under must wear a helmet

• Traffic lights, signs, and signals apply to all road users, including bicyclists and e-bike riders

• Cyclists must ride to the right of the road as practicable. If you're riding slower than traffic, ride in the bike lane. You can leave the bike lane to turn left, pass someone, avoid a road hazard or avoid cars turning right

• You must stop at crosswalks for pedestrians

• Be aware of other road users and try to match the average speed. This means riding slowly in areas with pedestrians

• Observe and follow speed limits on Class I bicycle facilities

• Must stop at red lights

• Must stop before right turn at red lights

• Must stop at stop signs

• Riding against the flow of traffic is prohibited

• Cyclists must ride to the right edge of road as practicable

• Proper reflective and lighting equipment must be used during night operation

• When a bicycle lane is available, bicyclists are required to use the bike lane unless they are traveling as fast as traffic

• It is illegal to carry passengers on your e-bike unless your bike has an extra permanent seat or when using a child safety seat

• The "sharrow" symbol below means the lane is too narrow for a bicycle and a motor vehicle to share safely side by side. Bicyclists should discourage unsafe passing by riding towards the middle of this narrow lane. Bicyclists have a right to the road, even if no sharrow is present

Passengers

• Many e-bikes are not equipped to carry passengers. E-bikes can only transport passengers if there is a designated spot for passengers and transportation can be carried out safely

• Passengers are required to wear a helmet if they are under 18

• Class 3 e-bike riders must not transport passengers

Safety

E-bikes are lucrative targets for thieves. Take every precaution to ensure that your e-bike is safe.

• When done using your bike, put it away - inside if possible and out of site

• When out and about on your bike, always lock it securely and keep an eye on it

• Use a good lock. Make sure your lock has a high-security rating and learn to use it wisely

• Where to lock it? Look for something totally immovable that can't be cut

• How to lock it? Lock at the lowest point possible between bike frame and the locking object or cycle stand. This makes access and leverage points harder for thieves. Lock the frame and one wheel to the stand

• If you have parts or components that are easily removed, take them with you

Orange County’s E-Bike Regulations for Trails

E-bikes are prohibited on unpaved trails within regional and wilderness parks. This includes Classes 1-3: More information on e-bikes and mobility device policies.