Kids modifying ebikes has become a growing problem—and a dangerous one. Ebikes give teens
freedom, fun, and a practical way to get to school. But when young riders start altering their bikes,
they create risks for themselves and others. As both a parent and a bike shop owner, I see
firsthand how unsafe modifications turn legal ebikes into illegal and unsafe machines.
The Problem With “Class 2” Ebikes
Some Class 2 ebikes can be unlocked or adjusted through software settings, making them faster
than the law allows. In California, these bikes can no longer be sold as of January 2025, and
other states will likely follow. Buying a legal ebike is only the first step—many teens still look for
