Katy Authorities Talk E-Bike Concerns Ahead of Summer Break
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KATY MAGAZINE NEWS
May 18, 2026
By Natalie Cook Clark
Local officials are stressing to Katy families the dangers and potential legal risks to driving popular electric motorcycles and other electric means of transportation and recreation.
This year the popular “toy” craze has been electric bikes, scooters, and motorcycles. Children and teens use these to get to school and around town, but they continue to result in accidents and complaints.
“We get so many complaints,” says Fort Bend County Constable Chad Norvell. “These are relatively new and have taken us by storm and many of the ones we see cost a few thousand dollars.”
Last Friday, there was an accident involving a teen boy and his e-motorcycle at Spring Green and Falcon Landing. While that boy is reported to be ok, two teens this year have been in accidents severe enough that required them to be air lifted to a nearby hospital.
“E-bikes with pedals are legal but must follow traffic laws, same as a regular bicycle,” says Constable Norvell.
Constable Norvell says that they easiest way to identify the type of electric vehicle is the lack of pedals. That makes it a motorcycle, and it is only legal is you ride it on your own property. They are not legal on roads, sidewalks or trails.
Electric scooters can reach at a higher speed, it’s more important than ever for riders to follow safe practices.
Stay Safe on Your New Electric Vehicle
Slow Down- Ride at a controlled speed, especially near driveways and intersections.
Avoid Distractions- No loud music or texting. You need to be aware of what is happening around you.
Play it Safe- Wear a helmet in case of a fall.
Know the Rules- Follow the same rules as pedestrians and drivers.
Always Stop- Completely stop at crosswalks and make sure drivers can see you.
Use Lights- When it’s dark use front and rear lights. If your scooter or bike doesn’t have lights, add them.
It is also important to understand laws and practices when it comes to your new toy. Harris County recently took to social media to remind residents that motorcycles and dirt bikes, whether gas-powered or electric, are prohibited.
All bicycles with pedals are allowed, as are scooters, whether they are electric or not. It’s important to note that while electric scooters and bikes are allowed that riders must still adhere to safe practices and law enforcement will enforce.
It is important to understand the difference and the popularity of e-bikes is drawing a lot of comparisons to motorcycles, especially smaller ones.
E-bikes have pedals and electric motors not to exceed 750 watts. They’re viewed as “bicycles” under Texas law. (TTC 664.001)
Electric motorcycles have a larger motor and will exceed 28 MPH. These are not legal on trails or sidewalks. They are only legal on the roadway if they’re registered, have insurance and the operator has a Class M driver’s license. They may also be ridden on your private property such as a deer lease, just as any other off-road vehicle may be.
Katy families and teens need to also be aware that citations involving these bikes can impact a student’s ability to get their driver’s license at sixteen.
Summer is coming and authorities want families to understand the dangers and risks of these bikes. It is important to educate students and prevent further dangers and complaints.
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