[Eric Foltz]

297 days

17,086 miles

1,053,000′ elevation

8000+ dirt

 

[Eric Foltz]

State and county parks already ban the use of motorized vehicles/bikes through ordinances. This does not override those ordinances. It only allows them where ordinances do not currently exist.

[Eric Foltz]

Here’s the entire bill:
This is the only part that matters: “<span id=”digesttext”>The bill would prohibit the operation of a class 3 electric bicycle on specified paths, lanes, or trails, unless that operation is authorized by a local ordinance. The bill would also authorize a local authority or governing body to prohibit, by ordinance, the operation of class 1 or class 2 electric bicycles on specified paths or trails.”
In other words, all existing bans on motorized vehicles on dirt trails in state and county parks are still in effect.

AB 1096, Chiu. Vehicles: electric bicycles.

Existing law defines a “motorized bicycle” or a “moped” as a 2-wheeled or 3-wheeled device having fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power, or having no pedals if powered solely by electrical energy, and an automatic transmission and motor, as specified.
Existing law also defines a “motorized bicycle” as a device that has fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power and has an electric motor that meets specified requirements. Existing law requires a motorized bicycle, as described by this definition, to comply with specified equipment and manufacturing requirements. Existing law also imposes specified requirements relating to the operation of bicycles. A violation of the Vehicle Code is a crime.
This bill would delete the latter definition of a “motorized bicycle.” The bill would define an “electric bicycle” as a bicycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts, and would create 3 classes of electric bicycles, as specified. The bill would require manufacturers or distributors of electric bicycles to affix a label to each electric bicycle that describes its classification number, top assisted speed, and motor wattage. The bill would require every electric bicycle manufacturer to certify that it complies with specified equipment and manufacturing requirements. The bill would also require an electric bicycle to operate in a manner so that the electric motor disengages or stops functioning when brakes are applied, or in a manner so that the release or activation of a switch or other mechanism disengages or stops the electric motor from functioning.

The bill would require a person riding an electric bicycle to comply with the above-described requirements relating to the operation of bicycles. The bill would prohibit persons under 16 years of age from operating a class 3 electric bicycle. The bill would also require persons operating, or riding upon, a class 3 electric bicycle to wear a helmet, as specified. The bill would prohibit the operation of a class 3 electric bicycle on specified paths, lanes, or trails, unless that operation is authorized by a local ordinance. The bill would also authorize a local authority or governing body to prohibit, by ordinance, the operation of class 1 or class 2 electric bicycles on specified paths or trails. The bill would prohibit a person from tampering with or modifying an electric bicycle to change its speed capability, unless he or she appropriately replaces the classification label. The bill would specify that a person operating an electric bicycle is not subject to financial responsibility, driver’s license, registration, or license plate requirements. The bill would also make conforming changes.</div>
<div style=”margin: 0 0 1em 0;”>This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 21113 of the Vehicle Code proposed by AB 604 that would become operative only if this bill and AB 604 are both chaptered, and this bill is chaptered last.

Because the bill would create new requirements regarding electric bicycles, the violation of which would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.
The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.
This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.
The people of the State of California do enact as follows:

Section 312.5 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:

(a) An “electric bicycle” is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.
(1) A “class 1 electric bicycle,” or “low-speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
(2) A “class 2 electric bicycle,” or “low-speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
(3) A “class 3 electric bicycle,” or “speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour, and equipped with a speedometer.
(b) A person riding an electric bicycle, as defined in this section, is subject to Article 4 (commencing with Section 21200) of Chapter 1 of Division 11.
(c) On and after January 1, 2017, manufacturers and distributors of electric bicycles shall apply a label that is permanently affixed, in a prominent location, to each electric bicycle. The label shall contain the classification number, top assisted speed, and motor wattage of the electric bicycle, and shall be printed in Arial font in at least 9-point type.

Section 406 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

(a) A “motorized bicycle” or “moped” is a two-wheeled or three-wheeled device having fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power, or having no pedals if powered solely by electrical energy, and an automatic transmission and a motor that produces less than 4 gross brake horsepower and is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour on level ground.
(b) Every manufacturer of a motorized bicycle or moped, as defined in this section, shall provide a disclosure to buyers that advises buyers that their existing insurance policies may not provide coverage for these bicycles and that they should contact their insurance company or insurance agent to determine if coverage is provided. The disclosure shall meet both of the following requirements:
(1) The disclosure shall be printed in not less than 14-point boldface type on a single sheet of paper that contains no information other than the disclosure.
(2) The disclosure shall include the following language in capital letters:

[Eric Foltz]

Try the Lake Clementine/Foresthill Loop, Salmon Falls Trail and the Granite Bay Trails. They are all listed under the California Trail Reviews.

[Eric Foltz]

Where are you thinking of filming?

[Eric Foltz]

I’m the same size as you and ride a medium frame.

[Eric Foltz]

Six months down. How is everyone doing in 2014?

My report:

169 rides
7638 miles
500,531′ climbed

Lots of new trails. Best of the year so far was probably the Black Canyon Trail in Arizona.

[Eric Foltz]

Ten days down:

[url:2rngtv0f]http://ericfoltz.blogspot.com/[/url:2rngtv0f]

[Eric Foltz]

"stumpyfsr" wrote

I met a man in Wyoming today, who’s riding from Seattle to D.C. Was below freezing, snowing and near 20-mile 8% climb. I admire people like You, Eric, and that man for dedication in achieving your dreams no matter what challenge is ahead. Best luck on the roads.

Here’s the journal I kept a couple of year’s ago on the Southern Tier during Winter: [url:3mqszqoh]http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/5841[/url:3mqszqoh]

[Eric Foltz]

I’ll stick with South Orange County, California. Hundreds of miles of trail all interconnected with National Forest, State Parks and County Parks. Not as scenic as some places but I can ride from the edge of the Pacific Ocean all the way to snow at the top of Santiago Peak in the space of 40 miles.

South OC Trail Map: [url:2usulr26]http://bit.ly/1kFWtS8[/url:2usulr26]

[Eric Foltz]

So, we’re a quarter into the year. How is everyone doing on meeting their 2014 goals?

[Eric Foltz]

Downieville, Lake Tahoe, Bend, Southern California, Santa Fe, Flagstaff, Santa Cruz, Black Hills (SD), Wisconsin, Michigan are all good choices for that time of year.

[Eric Foltz]

Try here: [url:2p6etap1]http://www.socaltrailriders.org/[/url:2p6etap1]

and here: [url:2p6etap1]http://www.geoladders.com/routes.php?search_id=10[/url:2p6etap1]

[Eric Foltz]

"fishboy316" wrote

Wow Eric, How do you find time for work! Heck my goal is to learn to stay on the darn thing! 😆 Seriously I do want to learn how to ride much better! Will take time and I need to try not getting in over my head!

I’m a self-employed photographer. I live on the road for long periods of time with lots of free time during the day.

2014 so far: [url:3qwp128p]http://app.strava.com/athletes/4398/heatmaps/157fc3ea#7/35.10193/-116.83960[/url:3qwp128p]

[Eric Foltz]

"cpinkhouse" wrote

Here here, schwim.
Dang, Foltz! You’re an ambassador of the "brand" and the first reason you can think of is that it gives you hard data with which you can judge whether a fellow rider measures up to your criteria?? I dunno… having/needing to PROVE that I’m a "legit" cyclist (or asking it of others) is some self-involved nonsense that has nothing to do with actually pedaling trails. Kind of like how the weight of my bike or presence of ceramic bearings has nothing to do with it also. You can go ahead and do it. Please, just don’t use it as a way to feel superior to others.

It actually has nothing to do with feeling superior to others. It has to do with establishing the credibility of the person.

This is especially important when the people that I am referring to seem to be the ones who spend the most time giving advice on online forums. Over the years I have seen some pretty horrendous advice given on everything from nutrition to training to bike buying advice to tire reviews etc…

The people I refer to are the ones who like to constantly post about every subject whether or not they know anything about it. But by always posting, they somehow establish themselves as experts. The unfortunate side of this is that the beginners who can’t see through the BS then end up getting bad and sometimes even dangerous advice.

So when I refer to "Prove it," it has more to do with me having a way to filter through and see who’s advice is actually worth listening to, the guy who rides once a week at best and maybe hits a couple hundred miles per year, or the guy who consistently rides week in and week out and actually puts his gear through the wringer.

I’m going to give you a couple of examples:

1. Tire reviews – How many times do you read a review and it says, "I’ve had these tires on for 2 years and they are the best." As someone who puts in some miles, I would be much more interested in hearing how many miles you got out of them than how many years. I go through a rear tire every 6-8 weeks with 1000-1500 miles. Wouldn’t mileage be a little more helpful. But not giving mileage is how some people avoid actually admitting that they don’t really ride.

2. Trail Ratings – I think we can all see the weakness in the rating system on the site. Trails that are convenient get more ratings and therefore end up higher on the list. Trails that are convenient also attract riders with a different skill level. Popularity does not equal quality. Seeing an indoor bike park with a higher rating than Bootleg Canyon should prove my point. As someone who has ridden all over the country, my standards for ratings are probably a little higher than someone who has only ridden a couple of local trails. I like to be able to weed through and see what riders who have been around have to say about a trail before I spend time and money going there.

Now, you may still think that this seems elitist and that is up to you. But like it or not, some people’s opinions are worth more than others. Everyone who buys a bike is not instantly an expert on everything bike related. I’ve been riding for 40+ years starting in BMX. I ride MTB, Road, have ridden across the country from San Diego to Florida on a mountain bike unsupported.

I would never claim to be an expert on any of it, but I do know a little bit. And I know that I like to be able to see how credible someone is before I listen to their advice. Seeing a person’s ride history gives me a pretty good idea of how much weight I should give what someone says.

[Eric Foltz]

What I love about STRAVA (with the disclaimer that yes I am one of their brand ambasadors):

1. Accountability – I meet riders all of the time who go on and on about how much they ride, how fast they are, etc… STRAVA makes it possible for me to say "Prove it." Because most of the people I know who bad mouth the site are the same ones who do a lot of talking but when you actually do ride with them, it is obvious that they are FOS.

I like being able to look at someone’s profile and immediately know if they like to ride their bike or if they like to talk about riding their bike.

2. Heat maps – I ride all over the country and I love being able to map everywhere I’ve ridden. [url:24y07vc7]http://app.strava.com/athletes/4398/heatmaps/3fa8f9c5#10/33.57801/-117.59766[/url:24y07vc7]

3. I don’t particularly like races these days. Most of the promoters over fill their registrations leading to courses that are at times nothing more than hike-a-bike traffic jams full of riders who can barely stay upright on their own let alone surrounded by a couple of hundred other riders. STRAVA gives me means of competing where I don’t have to deal with this.

4. Exploring new areas – I can go to an area and look at the map and see what segments have been created which gives me a pretty good idea of what is worth riding.

5. Inspiring other riders to ride more by encouraging them to join the challenges. Not because they may win but so they challenge themselves to ride further, climb more and just become better riders and increase their fitness.

I’ll leave it at five but I could add quite a few more including that I’ve met some fantastic people through STRAVA who I never would have met without it.

[Eric Foltz]

"LucindaInGA" wrote

I agree. I’d love to do a multi day biking trip out west or in Scotland where you can ride all day and take in the scenery.

Sent from my Z10 using Tapatalk 2

If you get bored, here’s my journal from a little multi-day ride I did a couple of years ago…

[url:3t2w9rtb]http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/5841[/url:3t2w9rtb]

[Eric Foltz]

Thanks Greg – I saw you had been out our way. I’m always surprised at how many of the locals don’t even know what is available. Orange County, where I’m from, has probably the largest inter-connected trail system in the country. If you know your way around, you can connect all the county wilderness parks with the state parks and the National Forest for some really huge rides.

I’ll keep adding gpx files as I get time. I’ve got tracks from all over the country dating back to 2006 so I’ll have to compare what I’ve got with what is already up.

Great job on the site. I look forward to watching it grow.

[Eric Foltz]

I’m pretty new here so this thread seems as good a place to introduce my self as any. Some of you may have seen me on the STRAVA club page and may be familiar with the name. I’m also one of the STRAVA Ambassadors so if you have any questions, complaints, suggestions, feel free to throw them my way. I’ve been an ambassador with them for three years so I’m pretty up on what is going on and what new features are in the works.

Since I’ll be traveling this year, it may be a challenge to hit last year’s mileage/elevation, but I’ll give it my best shot.

Some general goals:

1. Keep hitting my 250-miles per week goal (combined Road/MTB).
2. More IMBA Epics (10 or more would be good).
3. New trails – I’d like to ride at least 1000 miles of new trail this year.
4. Hit at least 20 more of the toughest road climbs in the U.S. (Yeah, its a road thing).
5. More group rides – I may be coming to an area near you. Show me your trails.
6. Top 10% on all STRAVA Challenges.
7. Ride my age (50) at least once a month on the MTB and 2x my age on the Road Bike.
8. White Rim, Kokopelli, Maah Dah Hey, AZT
9. Finish top 10% (overall) in any race I end up in.
10. Stay healthy.

Most important goal – Have fun!

[Author]

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