Best Electric Bike For San Francisco

Different states in the USA have different rules and regulations for electric bikes to follow. You must need to follow your local rules to smoothly ride your favorite electric bike.

Choosing just a powerful electric bike and going on a ride might not be a good idea if you live in San Francisco, California. We will give you an in-depth overview of how electric bikes are treated under the SF federal law which you should consider while getting your next ebike.

Plus, we’ll include the best electric bike for San Francisco that are compliant with CA federal law. Let’s go through the reviews and help you pick your bike real quick.

Are Electric Bikes Legal In San Francisco?

It’s absolutely okay to rid ebikes on the roads of San Francisco by the law. Electric bikes are legal in San Francisco under certain rules and regulations. These bikes have all the rights regular bicycles get and should follow the same law regarding speed limits and other regulations.

As electric bikes are considered the same as regular bicycles, you don’t need to register your e-bike or get a license plate to drive the bike. You also don’t need to have a driver’s license as long as your e-bike falls into this category.

California Assembly Bill 1096 is the legislation that defines which bikes will be under this law. According to the bill, your e-bike should have a 750 watt motor or less, alongside having operational pedals.

AB 1096 classifies electric bikes into three classes. Here’s a brief breakdown of these classes.

Class-1 Electric Bikes:

Electric bikes that get assistance from the motor only when pedaling fall into this class. These electric bikes shouldn’t go over 20 mph. The motor used in these bikes shouldn’t propel the bike on its own. Rather, it should be used to assist the rider while pedaling.

You don’t need to wear helmets on these e-bikes unless you are less than 18 years old.

Class-2 Electric Bikes:

These are mostly the same as class 1 electric bikes but you get a handlebar throttle in these bikes to control the power level of the motor. You can reach up to 20 miles per hour but will have the capability of controlling the speed as per your need.

There is no age restriction for riding these bikes. And you also don’t need to put on a helmet on these bikes unless you’re sub 18.

Class-3 Electric Bikes:

Electric bikes with the highest power fall into this category. These bikes can have a speed up to 28 mph with motor assistance. The motor itself is enough to propel the bike and pedal assistance is also there.

You need to be minimum 16 years old and wear helmets to ride these e-bikes. There are also certain roads to ride class 3 electric bikes, which we will discuss in a moment.

Where Are E-Bikes Allowed In California?

Depending on the class of your electric bike, you need to ride on certain roads according to the law. Let’s see this chart to find out which roadways are allowed for which class of electric bikes.

Bikeway ClassificationsClass 1 Bike PathsClass 2 Bike LanesClass 3 BikewaysClass 4 Bikeways
DefinitionThese roads are only meant to be used by bicyclists and pedestrians.These roads are to be used by all kinds of e-bikes.These roads are integrated into main roads and are meant to be used by all e-bikes.Same as Class 3 Bikeways. But not integrated into main roads.
MarkingsNo markings. Usually separated from main roads.Distinct markings separate the biking lane from the main road.No special markings to separate the lane. Road signs can indicate these lanes.Always have special markings and are separated by physical barriers.
Allowed E-bike ClassClass 1, Class 2Class 1, Class 2, Class 3Class 1, Class 2, Class 3Class 1, Class 2

8 Best Electric Bike for San Francisco 2023

Electric bikes are a great way to save on gas and keep your legs fresh! We have compiled the best electric bike for San Francisco here, just in case you’re wondering what kind is right for you. Let’s explore and help you decide.

Best Electric Bike for San Francisco

1. Editor’s Choice: Sheng milo-MX02S 26 Inch Snow Electric Bicycle

The Shengmilo MX02S Snow Electric Bike is a professional, high-quality snow bike that performs on versatile surfaces. With its powerful motor and sleek design, it also looks great as an everyday ride!

Sheng milo-MX02S 26 Inch Fat Tire Electric Bike 48V 1000W Motor Snow Electric Bicycle

User Experience

  • You can use this bike on a trail for exercise
  • Easy and convenient assemble
  • Heavy and fast ride
  • Easy to switch between PAS and Throttle mode
  • Excellent bike at this price point

Specifications For Sheng milo-MX02S

Wheel26 Inches
SuspensionFront
Number of Speed21
Motor48v and 1000W
MaterialAluminum Alloy

Why We Love It

This bike is made of lightweight aluminum, so it’s strong and durable. And, the disc brakes make your trip safe by stopping on a dime without any issues. It has 26 x 4-inch  all-terrain tires meaning that you’ll have better traction in all conditions than ever before-including snow or sand!

With 21 speeds, this ebike will take care of business when commuting to work while also making sure there are no problems during mountain biking expeditions too. The New Sheng milo-MX02S electric bike is a blast to ride! Its powerful 48V*1000W brushless motor will give you tons of fun as it reaches speeds up to 40km/h.

You’ll get a MAX speed limit function in this bike with which you can go 20 – 35 kmph, even on slopes. The Li-poly battery power provides an excellent range and 1000 times life cycles while you’ll need 6-8 hours for one full charge.

Sheng milo has an intelligent control instrument, making it a smart electric bike. It features a waterproof LCD screen for its front probe-type design that makes it easy to see the stats including the speed and mileage you’re riding. It comes 95% assembled when you receive it and has strong spokes for great performance on any road or trail!

Quick Facts

  • Adjustable and lockable aluminum suspension fork for easy climbing or commuting.
  • The set comes with six different sorts of presents.
  • For a more comfortable ride, you can use suspension shock absorbers.
  • The versatile tires and suspension of this bike are amazing
Pros
  • Easily change gears to suit driving conditions
  • 1000 Watt robust motor
  • Made with sturdy aluminum
  • Removable battery with lock function
  • Night riding features included

Cons
  • There are no installation instruction
  • You need to recheck all the wheel screws for safety issue

FAQs For Sheng milo-MX02S

Q. Are tires tubeless?

Ans: No

Q. Where do I buy extra batteries?

Ans: Contact the seller, or you can place the order at the Sheng milo website.

Q. What type of lock works best on this bike?

Ans: You can choose any high-quality lock.

Q. What’s the bike’s weight limit?

Ans: 360 lbs.

2. Best Mountain Bike: ANCHEER Electric Mountain Bike 350W

Ancheer is a bike that will take you on your weekly ride and give it all to do so. The frame was constructed from aluminum, making this sturdy enough for any terrain or weather condition while weighing in at only 44 lbs.

ANCHEER Electric Bike Electric Mountain Bike 350W Ebike 26'' Electric Bicycle

User Experience

  • Paddle assist mode helps to paddle up hills
  • Very helpful for middle-aged people
  • Excellent bike for the price
  • Assembly is pretty straightforward
  • Powerful enough to handle a heavyweight person up to 300 lbs

Specifications For ANCHEER Electric Mountain Bike 350W

Wheel26 Inches
Suspensionfront
Number of Speed21
Motor36v and 350w
MaterialAluminum

Why We Love It

With a 350W high-speed brushless motor, you can power your daily commute or cruise on any terrain with ease! The 20 mph top speed will get this bad boy there swiftly so no more waiting around with slow speed! Falling under class-2 ebikes, it’s perfect for riding in style and comfort here in San Francisco.

Plus, ANCHEER is a bike that can go up to 40 miles per charge. With the 36V 10.4Ah Lithium-Ion battery, you’ll be able to take your adventure on without worrying about running out of juice! Moreover, the ANCHEER Electric Bike has a strong frame and durable tires that can take you anywhere.

The aluminum alloy double-wall rims provide greater stability, as well as a front suspension for added comfort when riding at high speeds on rough terrain or long distances. Built with professional 21-speed gears, it’s capable of doing anything from small commutes around town all way up steep hillsides of SF and CA.

Ancheer’s electric bike has three working modes: Ebike and assisted bicycle, or normal bike with the 4-speed smart meter button you can choose from a range of power levels depending on your needs. Plus, it is an ideal option for pulling away from slow traffic thanks to its throttle that delivers a burst forward velocity.

Quick Facts

  • The new nut locking method is quite easy to convenient
  • Very fashionable design with the eye-catchy look
  • You can take this on-road adventure
  • Quite effective for exercise with pedal assist
Pros
  • 350W robust motor
  • 21-Speed gears can make you more comfortable
  • Three working modes can be combined
  • Sturdy suspension fork
  • Constructed from aviation-grade aluminum

Cons
  • Hard to communicate with the manufacturer
  • The LED meter could be better

FAQs For ANCHEER Electric Mountain Bike 350W

Q. Does it come with the charger?

Ans: Yes

Q. What is the width of the wheel/ tire?

Ans: 26 inches

Q. Does it come assembled?

Ans: No, you need to assemble it.

Q. Can you use throttle while not using the PAS?

Ans: Yes, you can.

Q. Is the rear axle quick release or nutted?

Ans: Nutted.

3. Most Powerful: DJ Mountain Bike 750W 48V 13Ah Power Electric Bicycle

The DJ Mountain Bike is a high-quality electric bike that combines the best features of road and mountain bikes. It offers durable construction, perfect for the hilly terrains of San Francisco with an aesthetically pleasing design at an affordable price!

DJ Mountain Bike 750W 48V 13Ah Power Electric Bicycle

User Experience

  • This bike is great for exercise and commuting
  • If you have bad knees then this bike will be a great option for you
  • Heavy and fast Bike
  • The battery has a USB port to charge your phone
  • Great bike if you are heavyweight

Specifications For DJ Mountain Bike 750W

Wheels26 Inches
Suspensionrear/front (Dual)
Number of Speed7
Motor750W (1000 peak)
MaterialAluminum

Why We Love It

The bike is powerful, affordable, and durable with a front headlight for night riding. It’s quiet so you won’t bother your neighbors on the street or any other passersby. Also, it has an excellent clean look due to its integrated design elements like a suspension shock absorption system.

It’s exactly the bike you’ve been looking to ride in San Francisco or California! Whether a first-timer or an expert, this sleek and stylish commuter will have something in store. DJ Bikes included cutting edge technology, safe and reliable transmission system with wide safety standards in this bike.

With 1000W peak power, the DJ bike is a great choice for riders who are looking to take on any long, steep hills. This DJ Bike’s adaptive seat is the perfect way to take your bike on longer rides. With height adjustments, padded seats, and shock absorption, you’ll get extra comfort while riding over rough terrain or even just moving around the streets of SF!

Get this DJ Bike for its all-purpose tires that are made of high-quality compounds for smooth riding. The 5 level pedal assist puts power into your step and ensures that you can ride as long or short distances without breaking a sweat!

Quick Facts

  • It comes with an adjustable suspension fork
  • The gear shifting system is good for those who love to paddle
  • The bike is great for all types of user
  • Long-lasting battery sells are from Samsung or LG
Pros
  • Excellent brushless hub motor
  • Shimano speed for better riding
  • Pedal assist to have a comfortable riding
  • Shock absorbent seat
  • Heavy-duty tires

Cons
  • Little bit high price
  • Customer service could be better

FAQs For DJ Mountain Bike 750W

Q. What is the seat height at the lowest setting?

Ans: 37.4 inches (95 cm) to 42.1 inches (107 cm)

Q. What is top speed?

Ans: 20MPH

Q. What size are the spokes?

Ans: front: 13GX250/252MM, Back: 12GX186/188MM.

Q. How do I remove the battery?

Ans: You need to remove the seat first

Q. Can I buy an extended warranty?

Ans: No

4. Best Fat Tire: Speedrid 48V 500W Fat Tire Electric Bike

The newest SPEEDRID 26″ Big Wheels Fat Tire Electric Bike packs a powerful punch, allowing you to go hills and trails with ease. With 7 speed gearing as well 500W 5 levels pedal assistance for top performance on the road or trail –it’ll be hard not to be satisfied! Especially if you’re riding it on the slopes of California.

Speedrid Electric Bike 48V 500W Fat Tire Electric Bike

User Experience

  • If you are familiar with bicycles, the assemble is quite easy
  • You will enjoy the throttle mode for speed
  • A seat can be adjusted to your heights
  • A mechanical disc brake is quite a lifesaver
  • It will serve you for a long time

Specifications For Speedrid 48V 500W Fat Tire Electric Bike

Wheel26 Inches
SuspensionFront
Number of Speed7
Motor500W
MaterialAluminum

Why We Love It

Speedrid Electric Bike is perfect for anyone who wants to zip around downtown San Francisco quickly and easily. With a powerful 500W motor, this bike can take you up hills with ease and has enough power to make your commute a breeze. You can also ride the hills of SF and discover the joys of cycling without having to break a sweat.

This eBike is an eco-friendly alternative to your traditional bike. With a powerful 48V 10Ah battery pack that can go up to 22 miles on one charge, you will be able to cover most trips without worrying about running out of juice! The Speedrid electric bike also has a convenient Battery On/Off Charge System so you can take it with you no matter where.

With Speedrid Electric Bike, you can take your ride to the next level. Front and rear mechanical disc brakes are included, as are a 2 coated aluminum alloy rim from the wheel and a high-strength carbon steel fork shock absorption. Plus, the 7-speed professional gearbox guarantees a smooth ride every time you get behind the wheel.

Quick Facts

  • LCD can speed, battery, mileage, etc.
  • 48V robust motor can speed up to 40 Mph depending on the weight
  • A bike can handle a long slope under 40 degrees
  • 7-speed transmission enabled bike
  • The bike’s front suspension provides a lot of comforts.
Pros
  • Robust and powerful 500W motor
  • The battery has the large capacity
  • Manufactured from sturdy material
  • Suitable for off-road riding
  • Excellent stopping power

Cons
  • Customer service could be better
  • The tire can be flattened with the heavy load

FAQs For Speedrid 48V 500W Fat Tire Electric Bike

Q. Do you have to assemble it?

Ans: it comes 99% assembled

Q. Can it carry a 285-pound person?

Ans: Yes

Q. Can this bike be fitted with racks?

Ans: Yes, they can

Q. Does it come with a battery charger?

Ans: It does!

5. Best For Adults: ENGWE 750W 500W Folding Electric Bike

The ENGWE 750W 500W Folding Electric Bike is the perfect cruiser for anyone who appreciates speed and style. This high-performance electrically-assisted bike can go up to 28 miles per hour, making it perfect for the high rise claimbs of San Francisco fastest valued folding/heavily pedal-assisted bike on sale.

ENGWE 750W 500W Folding Electric Bike

User Experience

  • Users can have a great balance on this bicycle
  • It feels sturdy
  • This bike is good value for money
  • The seat of the bike is quite comfortable
  • Electric-assist mode can be a great help for older people

Specification For ENGWE 750W 500W Folding Electric Bike

Wheels20 Inches
SuspensionFront only
Number of Speed7
Motor750W (500w variant is available)
MaterialAluminum

Why We Love It

Electric bike EP-2 is designed for riding with lightweight and efficient construction. The aluminum alloy frame matches your height and diverse trip styles that the grounds of San Francisco offers. Ther’s a Mechanical Lock Front Suspension Fork in the bike will make it easy to tackle any road condition in good shape!

With 20″ alloy wheels, EP-2 features an adjustable seat and handlebars that are equally comfortable for all heights. The hydraulic disc brakes will take care of slowing you down to a stop in no time at all! It weighs only 55 pounds and maxes out at 20 km/hr with the consistent power of 750 W.

It’s the high-quality, affordable ebike that will make your commute easier and more efficient. With a top speed of 28MPH and a battery that can last up to 25 miles, this bike has everything you need to make your rides on the CA hilly trails faster and less tiring. Best of all, it folds up easily for storage or transport, so you can take it with you wherever you go.

With front and rear disc brakes and a 7-speed transmission system, you can choose the speed that’s right for you. The soft leather seat and fat tires will make your rides comfortable, and the foldable design makes it convenient for camping or picking up in your car. Plus, the headlight and taillight make you safe to ride at night.

Quick Facts

  • The bike comes 85% pre-assembled
  • 750W rear hub motor is very powerful
  • You can have a comfy riding with the fat tires
  • This bike is suitable for off-road biking
  • The LCD display is very helpful for showing info about pedal assistance level
Pros
  • The front light can make you safe with foggy weather
  • Compact design
  • Portable and foldable
  • Strong brakes
  • Constructed with 6061 Aluminum Alloy
Cons
  • Hard to paddle because of the fat tire
  • The display might need some fixing

FAQs For ENGWE 750W 500W Folding Electric Bike

Q. Does this bike have a twist or thumb throttle?

Ans: Twist throttle

Q. Is it correct that the lowest seating position is for 5’10?

Ans: It depends on the user’s comfort

Q. What brand batteries are in this bike?

Ans: The battery brand is JKBA

Q. What size are the tires?

Ans: 20 inches

6. Best Folding: SAMEBIKE 20″ Folding Electric Bike 350W 48V 10.4Ah

With a 350W stable brushless motor, this bike can take you anywhere you want to go quickly and easily. Whether you’re looking for a faster commute or enhanced weekend riding thrills, the SAMEBIKE e-bike has got you covered.

SAMEBIKE 20

User Experience

  • Great value for your money
  • LCD feature is quite a user friendly
  • Customer service is pretty easy to reach
  • Comfortable ride
  • Easy to store

Specifications For Samebike 20″ Folding Electric bike

Wheel26 Inches
SuspensionFront
Number of Speed7
Motor350W
MaterialAluminum

Why We Love It

This bad boy comes equipped with a 350W high-speed brushless motor, making it perfect for both short and long rides. Whether you’re looking to hit the electric mode and cruise at 18 mph or use the moped mode for a more relaxed journey, this bike has got you covered. Plus, with its bright LED headlamp and horn, you’ll be able to ride safely and confidently even at night.

Hop on the SAMEBIKE 20″ Folding Electric Bike and power up your ride in the bumpy terrainss of San Francisco! This electric bike comes with a 48V 10AH lithium battery and three riding mode options, so you can customize your experience. Cruise through town on pure electricity mode, pedal-assisted system mode, or manpower riding mode—whatever fits your needs.

This commuter-friendly bike quickly folds down, making it easy to store in your trunk or under your desk. Plus, with its LCD, you can keep track of your speed, distance traveled, and more. So ditch the car and hop on your folding electric bike instead! Made with aluminum, this bike is resistant to bad weather and rust. Plus, the seat and handlebar can be adjusted easily to ensure a perfect fit for both teens and adults.

Quick Facts

  • The front light will help you to ride at night
  • Its mobile holder comes in handy for CA slopes
  • You can charge your mobile
  • The battery is protected with a cover
  • You can choose from 7-speed gear
Pros
  • Powerful robust motor
  • 43 mileage coverage
  • LCD Display is very user friendly
  • 120 kg high weight capacity
  • Weather friendly material
Cons
  • Not suitable to climb too much steeper road
  • Installation manual could be easier

FAQs For Samebike 20″ Folding Electric bike

Q. What are tip speed and overall range in mph and miles?

Ans: 25mph

Q. Is this too big for a person of 5 feet?

Ans: The seat can be adjusted to your height

Q. Can you take the battery as a carry-on board?

Ans: Yes

Q. How much lb this?

Ans: 61.7lb (28KG)

7. Best All Terrain: DJ Mountain Bike 750W 48V 13Ah Power Electric Bicycle

This amazing ebike is is fun, safe, and loaded with tons of features that are perfect for San Francisco, both the city and off-road trails. Its lightweight frame with pedals makes it easy to ride down your favorite mountain roads!

DJ Mountain Bike 750W 48V 13Ah Power Electric Bicycle, Matte Black

User Experience

  • It can provide long-lasting performance
  • Suitable for hilly area
  • Feedback from the monitor is very useful
  • Comes mostly assembled
  • You don’t have to buy additional accessories

Specification For DJ Mountain Bike 750W

Wheel26 Inches
Suspensionrear/front (Dual)
Number of Speed7
Motor750W
MaterialAluminum

Why We Love It

DJ Bikes has set the highest safety and quality standards in both Canada, USA to meet consumer expectations. The bike frame is tested for strength by industry professionals while also following strict European Union regulations. It’s perfect from the materials used during production processes for maximized durability you need for the unforgiving roads of San Francisco!

DJ Mountain Bike 750W 48V 13Ah Power Electric Bicycle is a high-quality electric bike with a powerful motor. It can climb up any steep hill with ease. The frame is light, durable, and solid. The tires are thick and durable so you can ride on any surface without the worry of flatting your tire. This bike comes almost fully assembled so you can enjoy riding right away!

This is DJ Mountain Bike 750W 48V 13Ah power electric bike. It has a frame made of stainless steel, LG battery, and Bafang motor as mainstream components. The bike includes a Tun Gun suspension fork, Shimano gear, and Tektro brakes, which can provide you with a comfortable riding experience. This bike is designed for all-terrain use and maximum speed.

Quick Facts

  • The battery comes with the best-branded battery cell
  • It included a maintenance-free hub motor
  • Shimano gear shifting system makes it smooth
  • Easy to access pedal assist mode
  • 40-60 km mileage coverage
Pros
  • 750W Powerful motor
  • Manufactured from robust material
  • Shock absorbent adjustable seat
  • LED light to ride in the night
  • Suitable for off-road riding
Cons
  • The display monitor feels a little flimsy
  • Additional parts can cost you a lot

FAQ For DJ Mountain Bike 750W ebike

Q. What is the seat height at the lowest setting?

Ans: Seat is adjustable from 37 inches to 42 inches

Q. How is the bike packaged?

Ans: All the parts were safe inside bubble wraps in the package.

Q. How do you turn the motor on?

Ans: With the battery key.

Q. How does rain affect the bike?

Ans: It’s weatherproof

8. Best Affordable: OppsDecor Folding Electric Bike with 26 Inch Wheel

The OPPs Decor electric folding bike is a convenient and efficient way to get around town. This lightweight, foldable, and easy-to-operate bicycle offers low-cost, energy-efficient, and emission-free transportation.

ppsDecor Folding Electric Bike with 26 Inch Wheel

User experience

  • Easy to assemble the parts
  • Comes at an affordable price
  • Quick charging capacity helps if you are in a hurry
  • Going up heels is easy with this powerful motor
  • Very fashionable and versatile

Specification for OppsDecor Folding Electric Bike

Wheel26 Inches
Suspensionrear/front (Dual)
Number of Speed21
Motor250W
MaterialMetal

Why We Love It?

This is a high-quality folding electric mountain bike. It’s more convenient to carry it for travel and trip. It has a built-in lithium battery, which can be charged by a wall charger or car charger. The max speed of this electric bike is 25km/h, and the range of distance is 50km. This ebike adopts a lightweight yet strong aluminum frame, easy storage.

OppsDecor Folding Electric Mountain Bike can be folded into a compact size for easy storage and transportation. It features an LED headlight night riding and horn, which is helpful for your safety. The mechanical front and rear disc-brake will ensure safety as you ride through traffic of California or San francisco. Equipped with a 21-speed transmission system, it provides you with more options to choose from when climbing up the hill or cruising down the street.

This is a folding electric bike with 26″ air-filled tires and aluminum alloy wheels. The bike is very convenient to carry and it can be folded into a small size. Moreover, to assure your safety, the material can withstand rain, snow, and mountains. Plus, the handlebar is adjustable so you can adjust it according to your height.

Quick Facts

  • You can change mode with the smart meter button
  • Throttle to burst the speed to maximum
  • Wheels are also made with aluminum alloy
  • 21 transmission system to ride with comfort
  • The front brake is mechanical and the rear brake is a disk brake
Pros
  • High capacity motor
  • A spare battery can be bought
  • Easy to store with foldable design
  • Wheels are quite sturdy
  • Manufactured from robust metal
Cons
  • With a heavy load, the battery can be deceiving
  • Very similar to the Ancheer brand

FAQs For OppsDecor Folding Electric Bike

Q. Are handlebars adjustable?

Ans: Yes.

Q. How comfortable are the seats?

Ans: Seats are quite comfy

Q. How many miles can it go to with one charge?

Ans: 25 to 50 km depends on the rider weight

Q. Is it pre-assembled?

Ans: No.

How To Select The Best Electric Bike For San Francisco?

To get an electric bike that conforms to all rules and regulations in California, you need to consider several factors. Know about these factors and filter out your electric bike based on them.

How To Select The Best Electric Bike For San Francisco

Motor Power

Electric bikes that have a motor of maximum of 750 watts, will fall into the category where you don’t need a driver’s license or vehicle’s registration to drive in California and San Francisco.

If you are going for low-powered bikes, there shouldn’t be any issues. Class 1 or Class 2 bikes are mostly used by beginners. Class 3 bikes are suitable for more experienced riders. So, choose the motor power according to your expertise and riding needs.

Pedal Assist

Electric bikes are classified into different classes based on how much benefit the rider gets from pedal assist. For example, class 1 bikes are always propelled by pedals and assisted by the motor. The motor can assist only when the rider is pedaling.

If you are taking an electric bike for the daily commute or fun rides, try class 1 or class 2 bikes.

Riding Routes

As you might already know, roads for riding electric bikes are divided into four categories. Class 1 Bike Paths and Class 4 Bikeways don’t allow you to ride on class 3 electric bike.

So, if your neighborhood mostly has these kinds of bikeways, it will be better to go with a class 1 or class 2 bike. But if you regularly ride through Class 2 Bike Lanes and Class 3 Bikeways, you can easily choose a bike of any class.

Maximum Speed

Always keep an eye on the maximum speed of the bike you are going to buy. To conform to the local rules and regulations, your electric bike can’t go over certain speed limits.

Class 1 and Class 2 electric bikes are limited to 20 mph while Class 3 bikes can go up to 28 mph. If you are riding faster than that, you might need to fulfill a lot of conditions that are required to ride a full-fledged motorcycle.

Battery Power

Once you have the above factors sorted, you can now think of taking an e-bike with a powerful battery that will propel the bike to a longer range. As a result, you don’t need to frequently charge the battery and can go on a ride whenever you feel like it.

Choose a battery from a renowned manufacturer to get a good quality battery that will last longer.

Control and Display

To monitor your speed and other parameters, you need a good display on your bike. This is crucial to be within the allowed speed limit. Otherwise, you can get pulled over by a cop and be fined for breaking rules. A monitor also keeps you aware of how long you have  you battery to back you up when you’re going out or in the middle of nowhere.

Related Question

Want some more clarifications about riding electric bikes in San Francisco? Take a look at these frequent questions:

Do you need a license to drive an electric bike in California?

As long as your electric bikes falls into one of the three categories defined in AB 1096, you don’t need a driver’s license to drive an electric bike in California. For that, your electric bike should be compliant with certain rules and regulations.

For example, if you have an electric bike under 750 watts and it doesn’t go over 28 mph, you don’t need a driver’s license to drive the bike.

Are 1000 watt e-bikes legal in California?

Electric bikes with 1000 watt motor power that run beyond 20 mph are not allowed in California. Not to be confused with the California Moped Laws [Vehicle Code section 406(a)], you can get a 750w ebike and run it at less than 20 mph.

Anything over than that will be counted as a motorized vehicle and you will need to have a vehicle registration or license plate, driver’s license, insurance, etc., to drive the bike in California.

What class e-bike is legal in California?

Three classes of electric bikes are legal in California. Class 1 bikes should only have motor assist while pedaling and can’t go over 20 mph.

Class 2 electric bikes have motors that can propel the bike itself but not over 20 mph. And lastly, class 3 electric bikes have motors that can solely power the bike within the speed of 28 mph.

These three classes are legally acknowledged e-bikes in California.

Are e-bikes considered motorized vehicles in California?

No, electric bikes aren’t considered motorized vehicles in California. But to get exempt from that law, your electric bike should be under 750 watts and maintain certain speed limits.

What are the rules to ride a class 3 electric bike?

According to the Department of Motor Vehicles of California, you need to be at least 16 years or older to ride a class 3 electric bike. You also need to wear a helmet and follow certain bikeways because class 3 bikes aren’t allowed in all roadways.

Conclusion

California has a lot to offer, high steep hills and long cruising roads are among them. Riding the unforgiving terrains of San Francisco with an ebike needs to be perfect from every aspect, be it power, range, or feature.

We hope that the list above has helped you pick the best electric bike for San Francisco to comply the law without compromising quality of your ride. If you want us to make a choice for you and suggest the best one, go for the DJ 750W Mountain ebike. It’s made of sturdy aluminum and can withstand impacts from rough terrains of Ca.

You can easily hit With the speed limiter, you can make the bike run at a certain speed to follow local regulations. With its 1000 watt peak power and 750 watt running power, this bike runs like nothing else on the bumpy terrians of California. The heavy duty 48V 13Ah battye from LG will keep up with the pace you take.

Evan Larry

Hello, this is Evan Larry. The chief editor of this site, “eBikeBuster.” After completing my graduation in mechanical engineering, I worked for a renowned e-bike manufacturing company as a technician. I had worked there for almost six years, and later I quit the job and started my own business where I sell different types of e-bike and their tools and accessories. I created this site, eBikeBuster, to guide people, who are new to an e-bike and don’t have proper knowledge about its tools, accessories, and maintenance.

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