Do I need a license for a Duotts N26 in California?
Posted by Hour_Consequence_677@reddit | ebikes | View on Reddit | 4 comments
Hey folks, quick question. I’m looking at the Duotts N26 e-bike and I’m confused about the rules in California.
I heard that if the motor is above a certain wattage (someone said 750W?) you need some kind of license or registration. But I also see that California’s e-bike limit is 750W before it counts as a moped.
Does anyone know if the Duotts N26 needs a license/plate/registration in CA? Or is it fine to ride as a normal e-bike? I’m in the Bay Area (Fremont) if local rules matter.
ancientstephanie@reddit
If the top speed, throttle speed, or wattage exceeds the limits in any user-accessible operating mode, it's probably not legal in California.
And keep in mind class 2 and class 3 are mutually exclusive. You either get a throttle and a 20mph limit even under pedal assist, or you give up the throttle completely and have a 28mph limit in pedal assist. (walk/start assist isn't considered a throttle, but it's limited to walking speed).
If it doesn't meet the legal definition of an e-bike under California law, then it's a moped or motorcycle by default, but without the manufacturer going through all the legal hoops and certifying it's built to DOT motorcycle standards, it can't be registered, therefore, it can only legally be used off-road on a closed course or in an area designated for off-road vehicles, and must be trucked to and from such location, since it's never legal to be ridden on the road.
zachsilvey@reddit
Since that bike has a combined nominal motor power of 1500w it would be considered a moped in California. To legally ride it on public streets it would need to be registered, but not necessarily insured. The rider must be at least 16, wear a helmet, and have either an M1 or M2 endorsement.
All that said, as long as you ride it responsibly and abide by the eBike classification regulations, you are very unlikely to be bothered by law enforcement.
zekerigg41@reddit
Yeah 750 watt + 750 watt is 1500 watt. It also has a throttle and the bike likely won't cut off at 20 mph
tomxp411@reddit
That has a dual 750W motor, so it is not an "Electric Bicycle" under California law.
I'm honestly not sure if you can register these as mopeds. If that bike does not come with a VIN, then you might have difficulty doing so. You'll almost certainly need blinkers and a license plate holder.
If you register it as a moped, you would need an M1 license, but you might as well just get an M2 and be able to ride any motorcycle-like object.