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Turlock police see large increase in hazardous e-bike riding
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Turlock Police officers have seen an increase of over 300% for calls regarding unsafe operations of electronic bikes.

The Turlock Police Department has seen a sharp increase in calls involving e-bikes and high-powered electric bikes, such as the  Sur-Ron.

Over the past year and a half, from Jan. 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025, TPD officers responded to 22 calls mentioning “e-bikes” — a 340 percent increase compared to previous years. The most common reports include hazardous riding (weaving in and out of traffic, sometimes at speeds exceeding 40 mph), safety concerns (riders without helmets, doing wheelies, riding through shopping centers or school grounds, and sometimes squirting water guns at pedestrians), dangerous driving (carrying small children while operating, riding in the roadway in unsafe ways), suspicious activity (wearing ski masks, chasing animals in parks), and property concerns (reports of vandalism involving riders on school grounds).

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“We’re seeing a growing number of issues involving both e-bikes and high-powered electric motorcycles like Sur-Rons, especially among juveniles,” said Sgt. Jason Watson of the Turlock Police Department. “Riders are often on sidewalks, in traffic, without helmets, and not following the rules of the road.”

California law separates e-bikes into three classes, all with functional pedals and a maximum motor output of 750 watts.

Class 1 bikes are allowed on bike paths, lanes and streets, are pedal-assist only, and have a maximum speed of 20 mph. Class 2 bikes are also allowed on bike paths, lanes and streets, have a 20 mph top speed, with an optional throttle. Class 3 bikes are for riders 16 and older, require a helmet to ride, are pedal-assist with a 28 mph max speed, and are allowed on streets and some bike lanes.

E-bikes meeting these definitions do not require a license, registration, or insurance, but riders still must obey traffic laws.

By contrast, Sur-Rons and similar “e-moto” bikes are not legally considered e-bikes. They are off-road electric motorcycles with no functional pedals, much higher speeds (30 to 50-plus mph), and motors that exceed 750 watts. They are not street-legal unless registered and equipped like a motorcycle. Riding them on public roads, sidewalks, or bike paths can result in citations or impoundment.

“While Sur-Rons and similar bikes are not legal for street use without proper registration and equipment, even legal e-bikes become a serious safety concern when misused,” said Watson. “Our primary goal is education. We’re working to inform both young riders and their parents about the laws and the risks. But when safety is compromised, enforcement becomes necessary.”

Turlock Police Department offers these safety reminders for riders and parents: 

  • Sidewalk riding is prohibited for these vehicles.
  • Helmets are required for riders under 18 on e-bikes, and for all Class 3 riders.
  • Sur-Rons and similar vehicles may only be used on private property with permission or in approved off-road areas.
  • Riders must follow the rules of the road.