E-Bicycle Rules & Regulations
Riding bicycles, e-bicycles, off-road motorcycles, quads, and other types of electric vehicles is a great way to have fun, get exercise, and enjoy the outdoors. When riding e-bicycles in the City of Hidden Hills, posted speed limits and stop signs must be obeyed and local and state safety regulations must be followed.
To aid residents in their understanding of safe riding and biking on Hidden Hills streets, please reference this chart:
As of 2017, all e-bikes in California are required to have a label that describes its type, top assisted speed, and motor wattage. If you are unsure about the type of your e-bike, contact your local retailer of the manufacturer.
Mopeds, motorcycles, quads, and other types of motorized and electric vehicles, including golf carts, must be street legal and the driver must carry a valid driver’s license and vehicle registration (license plate). California’s universal helmet law applies. You must wear a safety-approved helmet on a moped, motorcycle, quad and motorized bicycle.
Residents can contact the California Highway Patrol Motorcycle Safety Unit at 916-843-3370 for additional information.
Riding on Equestrian Trails is Strictly Prohibited
The riding of vehicles of any type on equestrian trails has always been strictly prohibited, as it poses several dangers to horses and equestrians, such as:
- Safety of Equestrians: Equestrian trails are primarily designed for horseback riders and their horses. The presence of bicycles, e-bicycles and motorized vehicles can startle horses, potentially causing them to become agitated, spooked, or even bolt. This can lead to accidents, injuries, and the potential for riders to be thrown from their horses.
- Risk of Accidents: The combination of different types of users on the same trail can increase the risk of accidents, collisions, and conflicts. This is especially true if proper trail etiquette and safety rules are not followed by all users.
- Environmental Impact: Motorized vehicles can cause erosion and trail degradation, especially on softer or more delicate surfaces. This erosion can lead to increased maintenance costs and potential damage to the natural environment. Equestrian trails are often designed to minimize their impact on the surrounding ecosystem, and the use of vehicles can compromise those efforts.
- Control and Speed Differences: Bicycles and motorized vehicles can travel at much higher speeds compared to horses. This speed difference can lead to challenges in sharing the trail safely, as horses may have limited ability to move out of the way quickly.
- Shared Space Issues: Equestrian trails are narrower than roads or multi-use paths, and they have uneven terrain. The presence of bicycles and motorized vehicles can create conflicts between different types of trail users. The speed and noise of motorized vehicles can be particularly disruptive to horses and their riders.
- Limited Visibility: Equestrian trails are windy and have obstructed views due to vegetation. Bicycles and motorized vehicles can approach horseback riders at higher speeds, reducing the reaction time for both parties to adjust and avoid collisions.
- Noise Disturbance: Motorcycles, in particular, can create significant noise pollution that can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere that many equestrians seek while riding on these trails. The sudden and loud noise of a motorcycle engine can startle horses, potentially leading to accidents.
To report a dangerous driving situation please complete this form and send to staff@hiddenhillscity.org.