Santa Barbara Police Crack Down on E-Bike Riders Violating Road Rules
Tracy Lehr
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — People out and about in Santa Barbara on Wednesday may have noticed police officers ticketing some e-bike riders and impounding a motorcycle that is not allowed on the road.
In the afternoon, motorcycle officers impounded a Surron electric bike near the Dolphin Fountain. Thomas Towing hauled it away.
A Surron is an e-motorcycle or dirt bike capable of reaching speeds up to 60 miles per hour. These bikes usually lack functional pedals and are often referred to as pocket bikes, which are not permitted on any public roadway.
The rider, who was not present during the towing, received a standard traffic citation. The Surron will be impounded for 72 hours.
Commander Chris Payne said the enforcement effort is not necessarily a direct response to the recent Grand Jury report investigating the dangers some riders pose to public safety.
“This is the municipal code [10.52] that was passed earlier this year, and now that it has been through the warning period, we are actually conducting enforcement when we have the additional officers to do so,” said Cmdr. Payne.
He emphasized the importance of e-bike riders following the rules of the road, including those that apply to the open portion of the 400–1200 block of State Street, referred to as the promenade, which is closed to vehicle traffic.
The fine for a first offense is $100. A second offense is $200, and a third within one year is $500.
“If the individuals being cited are minors, we also have the Youth Diversion Program, where they don’t have to pay a monetary fine,” Cmdr. Payne added.Instead, minors attend a safety class.
In June, the Santa Barbara County Grand Jury issued a strongly worded report calling for increased enforcement in the wake of e-bike crashes, including a fatal accident on State Street in May. Police began enforcement in May and have recently been able to increase efforts, making it more visible to the public.
Cmdr. Payne said enforcement depends on officer availability and call volume. Typically, it is carried out by motorcycle and bicycle officers.
Shanae Sarah witnessed several citations being issued along State Street.
“I saw five e-bikes getting pulled over by a motorcycle cop, and some of them were getting tickets,” said Shanae, who preferred to use only her first name.
She said it would be helpful if there were designated spaces for more recreational e-bike use.
“They should create a different place where you can go do tricks and practice doing wheelies and things like that,” she suggested.
Josie Ruggles said her mother, a motorcycle rider, taught her the importance of always wearing a helmet.She said she loves riding her e-bike and takes extra precautions, especially around pedestrians.