Electric bike riders are required to follow all standard bicycle traffic laws.

This includes following the speed limits, stopping at stop signs and red lights, yielding to pedestrians, and making safe passings.

Motorized scooter riders are prohibited from operating along the sidewalks of downtown Ripon. But, according Chief Danny Sauer of the Ripon Police Department, they may do so elsewhere in town – more on that.

He mentioned that at the June 10 Ripon City Council meeting.

Sauer provided a staff report that reviewed state laws governing e-bikes and scooters while establishing clear safety standards.

His presentation also consisted of an outline of community outreach and education initiatives that are designed to encourage responsible riding.

An example of that is the Law & Order Rewards Program that was recently re-launched by local police.

The program recognizes those local youngsters who demonstrate positive behavior by following road safety rules. “These young role models receive gift certificates to local businesses as a token of our appreciation,” said Sauer.

According to local police, staff also developed informative pamphlets while sharing important updates on social media, providing helpful tips in the City of Ripon newsletter, and hosting two bicycle safety rodeos this year including one a few weeks ago.

“Staff is also conducting targeted enforcement efforts to provide educational opportunities and, when necessary, issue citations to repeat offenders,” Sauer said.

Sauer, in his presentation, described e-bikes and scooters along with the rules and regulations that are involved.

E-bikes, for starters, are bicycles equipped with a small electric motor and rechargeable battery to assist with pedaling.

“E-bikes are typically classified into three categories based on speed and more assistance and must have a label stating their class, top assisted speed, and motor wattage,” Sauer said.

All three classes are recognized as bicycles under California law, granting them access to public streets and roadways.

“No driver’s license, registration, or insurance is required to operate an e-bike,” said Sauer.

A motorized or electric scooter is defined as a two-wheeled device with a floorboard, handlebars, and an electric motor, designed to stood upon while riding.

Sauer noted that a rider must be age 16 with a valid driver’s license or instruction permit to operate a motorized scooter in public spaces.

He added: “Motorized scooters do not need to be registered with the DMV and do no require license plates – all traffic laws applicable to motor vehicles also apply to scooter riders.”

In addition, there are limitations on where those with motorized scooters may ride and they can only operate on roads where the speed limit is 25 mph or under.

The maximum speed limit is 15 with no passenger allowed. Riders under age 18 re required to wear a properly fitted and fastened bike helmet.

“Scooters must be operated as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge when moving slower than traffic and must use the bike lane where one is available – unlike e-bikes, riding scooters on sidewalks are prohibited,” Sauer said.