California Motorcycle Handbook - Antevia

MOTOR-DRIVEN CYCLESA motor-driven cycle is:• A motorcycle with a 149 cc orless engine size.NOTE: You may not operate amotor-driven cycle on a freewayif signs are posted to prohibitmotor-driven cycle operation.MOTORIZED BICYCLESThere are two definitions ofmotorized bicycle (moped). Amotorized bicycle is:• A two- or three-wheeleddevice, capable of no more than30 mph on level ground, andequipped wither with:- fully operative pedals forhuman propulsion.- an internal combustionengine producing less thantwo gross brake horsepowerand an automatictransmission.- an electric motor, with orwithout pedals for humanpropulsion. (VC §406[a])• A vehicle with pedals and anelectric motor (not more than1,000 watts) which cannot bedriven at speeds of more than20 mph on level ground even ifassisted by human power. Themotor must stop when thebrakes are applied or the starterswitch is released. (VC §406[b])If you operate a motorized bicyclewhich meets the definition ofVC §406[b], you:• Must be 16 years of age orolder.• Must wear a properly fitted andfastened bicycle helmet.• Are exempt from the motorvehicle financial responsibility,driver license, and moped platerequirements. (VC §12804.9)You may ride a moped in a bicyclelane at a reasonable speed. Becareful of bicyclists using thelane.MOTORIZED SCOOTERA motorized scooter is defined asany two-wheeled “device” with:• A motor, handlebars, and afloorboard for standing onwhen riding, and• The options of having:- a driver seat which cannotinterfere with the operator’sability to stand and ride.- the ability to be powered byhuman propulsion.The motorized scooter’s exhaustsystem must not be modified oraltered.3