Riding Smart in Rancho Cordova

For months, residents have reported a group of reckless youth riding motorized bikes throughout the community. They have been seen running red lights, tearing up fields, and making people feel unsafe.

Recently, thanks to the teamwork between Rancho Cordova PD, School Resource Officers, new technology, and our community, the individuals responsible were caught.

This is a great reminder that when community and RCPD work together, we get results. For ways to report a crime or suspicious activity, visit RanchoCordovaPD.com/contact/report-a-crime

Tips for Riding Smart:

The recent rise in popularity of eBikes and eScooters has raised questions as to what traffic rules apply to them and their usage on streets and bike paths. Below is some basic information to help clarify your questions and concerns, under California law.

An eBike is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. There are three classifications of eBikes:

Class 1 - Has a motor and assists the rider to reach a top speed of 20 MPH

Class 2 - Has a motor that propels the bike exclusively, via a hand throttle.

Class 3 - Has a motor and assists the rider to reach a top speed of 28 MPH. This bike has a speedometer, and the operator must be 16 years or older, and if under the age of 18, must be wearing a fastened helmet while on a public roadway/bike path.

A moped/motorized bicycle is any two or three wheeled device that has no pedals, and if powered solely by electrical energy, capable of a maximum speed of not more than 30 MPH. The operator is required to have a valid driver's license with an M-1 or M-2 endorsement, and a DOT compliant helmet is required for all ages.

E-Scooters also have an age regulation of 16 years or older, cannot exceed 15 MPH, and cannot be ridden on sidewalks. Additionally, riders may not carry passengers and must have a valid Driver License or Instructional Permit to operate.