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Texas children may find riding electronic bikes in their neighborhoods fun, but police say many of the ones that residents use are illegal in 2026.<\/p>\n
Courtesy of Leander Police Department<\/p>\n
Electronic bikes are a common sight in San Antonio front yards. Many parents give them as a gift to children to encourage outdoor play. However, Texas authorities say many of the ones they see on the roads are illegal, and guardians could be held accountable.<\/p>\n
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You may have had one growing up. The vehicles, which assist the rider as they pedal, are sold online and at neighborhood stores such as Walmart.<\/p>\n
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While only equipped with two wheels, they are required to follow most of the same traffic laws as a car, the San Antonio Police Department\u00a0tells MySA. This means the operator should be aware of current traffic signs and road rules before beginning a trip.<\/p>\n
There are several other guidelines folks should be aware of before purchasing the transportation devices, which can cost well over $200.<\/p>\n
Is it legal to ride an electric bike on the road in Texas?<\/p>\n
It depends. State law requires<\/a> electric bikes to\u00a0have fully operable pedals, a power output of or fewer than 750 watts,\u00a0contain a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph or less, and meet one of three classifications in the Texas Transportation Code. A top-assisted speed is defined as the “speed at which the bicycle’s motor ceases propelling the bicycle or assisting the rider,” per Section 664.001.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n When these qualifications are met, they are treated the same as traditional bicycles, San Antonio area\u00a0authorities say.<\/a><\/p>\n Others, like dirt bikes, often fall into the category of off-highway vehicles (OHVs), which are not allowed on land owned or leased by the state or a political subdivision, except in limited circumstances, per Section.551A.031.<\/a><\/p>\n This month, both the\u00a0Leander and Boerne police departments shared social media posts<\/a> saying they are cracking down on ticketing for illegal vehicles.<\/p>\n Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n Is a 750W eBike legal in Texas?<\/p>\n As long as it also meets the following guidance:<\/p>\n Contains fully operable pedals Rider follows the operation\u00a0rules and meets the age requirement set by the Transportation Code, including in 551.107<\/a><\/p>\n Can a child ride an electric bike in Texas?<\/p>\n
\nHas a power output of 750 watts or fewer
\nEhxhibits a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph or less
\nMeet one of the three classifications in the Texas Transportation Code Section 664.001<\/a><\/p>\n