The Visalia Police Department towed two electric motorcycles and issued multiple citations during a recent bicycle and pedestrian safety enforcement operation aimed at improving roadway safety, officials said Thursday.

Police said the operation focused on unsafe riding behaviors, including riders running stop signs and traffic signals, speeding through neighborhoods, riding without helmets, and modifying electric bicycles to exceed legal speed limits.

Under California law, riders under 18 must wear a helmet while operating a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike, while all Class 3 e-bike riders are required to wear a helmet regardless of age.

Officials also emphasized that electric motorcycles and mopeds are classified as motor vehicles and must meet licensing, registration, and insurance requirements. Devices without pedals are not considered e-bikes under state law.

Police encouraged parents to verify the type of device their children are riding and ensure all safety and legal requirements are followed.

Officials said the goal of the operation is education, enforcement and safety to help prevent crashes, injuries and illegal operation of motor vehicles.

The enforcement effort was funded through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety via the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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