Dauntless
100 TW
AstroKat said:I was not aware that "electric bicycle" motors in California are limited to 750w. I was aware of the speed limits (e.g. 20mph for class 1 and 2) but most of the articles only mention the classes and speeds in the new law, and other requirements such as having e-brakes, not the motor wattage. Even this official-looking chart that is posted all over the place does not mention wattage.
Where did that 750w number come from? There was a big discussion here several years ago concerning California concerning laws as written THEN of course, the two biggies were specific laws stating "Developing less than 2 brake hp" and "Below 1000w." Also the mention of 20mph or less if it's nonregistered.
AstroKat said:Anyone know how a "750w motor" is defined and interpreted by lawmakers? I've read a lot of articles about vendors labeling motors as less powerful to get around import restrictions. I can limit the speed via the LCD panel but not the current. Almost every vehicle on the road is capable of exceeding a speed limit but it's not a crime until you do so.
Well, it's good you brought that up. You'll get a CHP inspection if you're trying to register it as a moped, obviously none if you're not. People here have access to such stickers as they need. I don't think a lawmakers interpretation matters, they won't be there when there's a problem.
As far as I'm concerned, a 1500w leaf hub on, oh, some random 20" XGames bike or Schwinn OCC chopper that I might be familiar with are both interpreted as being legal. Now how is anyone going to prove me wrong?