Tag Archives: motorcycle laws

Motorcycle Laws in California

motorcycle laws in California

What motorcycle laws do you need to know in California?

Depending on the state you live in, motorcycle laws will vary and have different levels of importance. California is no exception. For people living or visiting California, knowing the laws is important if you want to drive your motorcycle safely. So, here are the motorcycle laws everyone should know before riding your bike in California.

Lane Splitting

While lane splitting isn’t uncommon, California is the only state that explicitly allows it and protects motorcyclist rights to do it. Allowing motorcycles to ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic is a great way to prevent more traffic build-up. However, California notes that everyone needs to exercise caution and has specific guidelines when it is allowed. Riders can only lane split whenever the traffic drops below 40mphs and can only move 10mphs faster than the traffic around them.

Before lane splitting, motorcyclists should keep an eye on their surroundings and be cautious about how fast they are driving.

Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

When it comes to your equipment, California is very strict on what needs to be on your motorcycle. Yet, these are important laws that can prevent fatalities on the roadway and can protect riders, drivers, and pedestrians from harm. First of all, helmets. Motorcycle helmets are a requirement for all riders and passengers, regardless of their age. Riding without a helmet can lead to a fine and 1 year of probation on your license. Other laws you need to know are:

  • Motorcycles require left and right mirrors that can view the highway for 200 ft
  • Handlebars cannot put the driver’s hands more than six inches above his or her shoulder height while sitting
  • Motorcycles must have functioning turn signals
  • Motorcycles built from 2013 and onward need to be compliant with the Motorcycle Anti-Tampering Act
  • All Motorcycles are required to have a minimum of one headlight to drive at night
  • Taillights need to be on a motorcycle and stay on for a minimum of 15 minutes once the engine turns off

Passenger Laws

According to California law, there is no age restriction on who can ride on a motorcycle. However, all passengers need to be able to sit “on a seat securely fastened to the machine at the rear of the driver and provided with footrests, or in a sidecar…” That means that children can ride on a motorcycle as long as they do not need a child safety seat. Outside of that, passengers need to keep their feet on the footrests while the motorcycle is moving and wear a helmet.

Whether you are a resident or a visitor, knowing these laws can help you remain safe while enjoying all the sights and motorcycle routes the state has to offer. Looking to sell your motorcycle? Get a FREE Quote now!

Categories: Motorcycles California Tags: ,

Riding In California What To Know

Riding In California What To Know

When riding in California, what do you need to know to drive safely and legally? Like every state, there are specific laws that you have to comply with in order to ride your motorcycle. California is no exception. So, what do California riders need to obtain a motorcycle license? Furthermore, what laws do motorcycle riders have to comply with?

Requirements for a Motorcycle License

Before you can even ride a motorcycle in California, you need a license. For those getting a motorcycle license in California, there are a few requirements that you need to meet before you can get one. First of all, you have to be at least 16 years old when you apply for your motorcycle license. In addition, if the motorcycle applicant is under 21, they must hold a learner’s permit for a minimum of 6 months. Regardless of age, all motorcycle applicants need to take the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP). This includes passing a vision exam, passing a written exam, and providing a valid California driver’s license or ID, and a thumbprint.

Seems simple enough! Once you get your license, you will be able to ride the roads on your motorcycle with no issue. However, let’s go over the laws that you have to comply with.

Helmet and Safety Laws

Safety is always important! That is why California has helmet and safety laws that motorcycle riders. Helmets are required for all motorcycle riders and passengers, to reduce the risk of traumatic brain injury and fatalities. It is illegal to ride a motorcycle without a helmet, with a penalty of a year of probation and a fine of up to $250.

When it comes to passengers, there are no minimum age requirements. As a result, children are allowed to ride on a motorcycle. However, children are required to be 4’9″ (meaning they no longer need a child safety seat).

Riding Laws

In addition to safety laws, California riders have to obey some riding laws. Many motorcyclists participate in lane splitting and sharing. At the moment, California is the only state where it is legal to lane split. California motorcyclists are legally allowed to ride the white line as long as traffic is going significantly slower than the speed limit. In fact, cars blocking motorcycles from lane splitting is committing illegal action. However, it is illegal for cyclists to use the shoulder for lane splitting.

Selling Your Bike in California

When it comes to riding in California, this is what you need to know! If California riders follow these basic rules and regulations, motorcyclists can take advantage of the amazing roads and routes that the state has to offer. However, if you are deciding to retire your motorcycle, why not sell it for cash?

At Sell Motorcycles for Cash, we buy a variety of used motorcycles. Whether you are selling a Harley Davidson or metric bike, Sell Motorcycle for Cash wants your motorcycle and will give you cash! Just fill out our easy-to-use quote form and get the best offer around!

Contact Us Today

Categories: Motorcycles California Tags: , ,