Introduction
Gun buyback programs are known across the country, and now Orange County has expanded this concept to tackle another potential hazard: e-bikes. In September, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office will initiate an e-bike buyback program, offering between $200 and $1,000 for each e-bike, with no questions asked. This initiative is designed to follow the model of police departments’ gun buyback programs.
Statement from District Attorney
“These vehicles are not child’s play, and the consequences are incredibly dangerous and increasingly deadly,” said Orange County Dist. Atty. Todd Spitzer in a statement. “We are doing everything we can to protect and save lives.”
The event’s flyer reads “Buy back safety,” reflecting the stringent measures being considered by California’s public agencies and lawmakers to address the rise in e-bike-related incidents.
Incidents and Concerns
This summer has seen police pursuits, street takeovers, and fatal crashes involving e-bikes, impacting innocent pedestrians and hospitalizing numerous riders. E-bikes have gained popularity in California among both adults and children. However, officials express particular concern for young riders using powerful e-bikes and electric motorcycles that can sometimes exceed police vehicle speeds.
Amazon Halts Sales
These powerful bikes are under the most scrutiny. Earlier this summer, Amazon agreed to stop selling high-speed e-bikes in California under pressure from state officials. By law, pedal-assisted e-bikes are capped at 28 mph and throttle models at 20 mph, yet Amazon had been selling bikes capable of exceeding 40 mph.
Study on E-bike Collisions
Research from UC San Diego shows a rapid increase in crashes and injuries involving e-bikes in California, particularly among riders aged 14 or younger. Between 2018 and 2024, e-bike riders were involved in over 4,035 collisions. Injuries from e-bike crashes tend to be more severe compared to traditional pedal bikes.
Statewide Efforts and Regulations
State agencies are responding with crackdowns. The Huntington Beach Police and Orange County Sheriff’s Department conducted free e-bike training at Dwyer Middle School in May 2025. Other measures include the Newport-Mesa Unified School District banning electric vehicles for elementary and middle school students on school property, while high school students are required to complete a California Highway Patrol online course.
Legislative Measures
On the legislative front, Assemblymember Diane Papan introduced AB 2595 to allow San Mateo County to impose age restrictions on e-bike riders under 12 years old. Another bill, AB 2346, proposed by Assemblymembers Marc Berman and Lori D. Wilson, seeks to mandate speedometers on e-bikes and limit riders under 16 years old to 15 mph.
Law Enforcement Perspective
Irvine police officer Jason Scheafer highlights the importance of laws and educational efforts for e-bike riders. He emphasizes that while most riders comply with safety regulations, there remains a problem with serious crashes involving young riders lacking driver’s education and road rule knowledge. Referrals to e-bike safety classes are provided, but illegal e-bikes may face impoundment as prevention measures.
Prosecution and Legal Consequences
Orange County prosecutors have established an e-bike and e-motorcycle prosecution unit to investigate criminal charges involving minors, adults, and parents. This unit reviews charges against adults who knowingly allowed children to ride illegal e-motorcycles. One case involved a mother charged with multiple felonies after her child was implicated in a fatal e-motorcycle accident.
Parental Awareness and Classification
Parents have become more discerning about legal e-bike usage. California has specific classifications for e-bikes and e-motorcycles, determining who can ride them and the requirements. Riders under 18 must wear helmets. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes have a maximum speed of 20 mph, while Class 3 e-bikes reach 28 mph and require riders to be 16 or older. Electric cycles without pedals, exceeding 28 mph, are considered motorcycles and require a license for riders 16 or older.
Warning from California Attorney General
The California attorney general cautions that altered bicycles beyond legal limits are prohibited for street use. The goal is to prevent crashes and injuries among young riders.
Details of the Buyback Program
Orange County’s e-bike buyback is scheduled for Sept. 13, offering two Los Angeles Angels baseball tickets to the first 75 people participating. The program also accepts gas pocket bikes and e-scooters, funded by asset forfeiture funds. The initiative aims to enhance public safety.