Do I need a special license to drive a motorcycle in California? After-market exhaust modifications are not necessarily illegal, but they cannot result in a noise level higher than those specified in California Vehicle Code sections 27202-27206. How loud can my exhaust be?Ĭalifornia Vehicle Code section 27202 limits the noise level of motorcycles to 80 decibels for motorcycles manufactured after 1985.

Must my headlight be on at all times in California?Ĭalifornia Vehicle Code sections 25650-25651 require that all motorcycles must ride with their headlights on at all times unless the bike was manufactured prior to 1978. In other words, ape hangers cannot be more than six inches above the driver’s shoulders when the driver is seated on the motorcycle. Are ape hangers legal in California?Ĭalifornia Vehicle Code section 27801 specifically limits the height of motorcycle handlebars to no more than six inches above the driver’s shoulders when securely seated.

Do I need a rear-view mirror to operate a motorcycle in California?Ĭalifornia Vehicle Code section 26709 requires that every motorcycle must have a mirror located so that the driver can view the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet behind the vehicle. Motorcycles are permitted to have an attached sidecar for the purpose of carrying a passenger. Every passenger on the motorcycle is required to keep their feet on the footrests while the vehicle is in motion. How many people can ride on the same motorcycle in California?Ĭalifornia Vehicle Code section 27800 requires that all passengers must have a seat securely fastened to the machine at the rear of the driver, and that each seat be equipped with footrests. The California Highway Patrol warns about the dangers of lane splitting and provides specific lane splitting safety tips. Although lane splitting is considered dangerous, California law leaves this decision up to the motorcyclist. California is one of the only states which allows lane splitting. Lane splitting (riding a motorcycle between two lanes of traffic) is legal in California. The specifications set forth in the Federal Safety Standards include, but are not limited to: thick inner liner, riveted chinstraps and a total weight of at least 3 pounds. Take the quiz and see how well you do! Do I have to wear a helmet to ride a motorcycle in California?Ĭalifornia law is clear: all drivers and passengers of motorcycles must wear a helmet which complies with Federal Safety Standards. We answer nine of the most common questions we get. California motorcycle law can be a little confusing.

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