These days, it's shocking to see kids riding electric bicycles on the streets of San Diego. 

It's clear that kids just over 10 years old, like my youngest, are zooming by on e-bikes in groups.

But while they may be called bicycles, they actually look like small electric motorcycles when you see them up close. Just a few pedal strokes and the motor kicks in, and with Class 2 bikes, you can just pull the throttle and zoom past at over 40 km/h. It's like handing motorcycle keys to little kids.

As a result, the city of San Diego has taken action. Starting August 13, 2026, children under 12 will not be allowed to ride electric bicycles in the city.

This includes all Classes 1, 2, and 3. It's not just on the roads; it's banned on bike paths, walkways, parks, and boardwalks as well. In simple terms, elementary school kids are only allowed to ride traditional bicycles that make them sweat from pedaling.

"Isn't the city being too strict?" some parents might grumble.

I initially thought, 'What a shame for the kids these days.' But after hearing from the hospital, my perspective changed. A pediatric trauma doctor at Rady Children's Hospital mentioned that they are overwhelmed with kids coming in with broken bones from riding e-bikes every week.

The age limit of 12? That's something to applaud and welcome.

This isn't just about speed. E-bikes are heavy due to their batteries and accelerate incredibly fast.

Classes 1 and 2 can reach speeds of up to 20 mph, which translates to about 32 km/h in Korean terms.

For an adult, reaching 32 km/h on a bicycle is quite fast, but can you imagine elementary school kids zooming through the streets at that speed?

What if a car suddenly pops out at an intersection? Do you think those kids, who lack quick reflexes, will be able to brake in time?

It seems the city can't stand to see this anymore, so they've imposed strict regulations.

Not only is riding prohibited for those under 12, but giving friends a ride is also banned.

If it's not a proper two-seater bicycle from the start, you'll get caught if you're carrying kids on the back. Wearing helmets is mandatory as well.

Fortunately, starting August 13, police won't be hiding out to catch kids and issue fines right away.

They'll have a two-month grace period until October 12, during which they'll be educating kids with, "Hey, you can't ride this."

Starting October 13, however, fines will be issued without leniency. If caught, there's also a course available that can reduce the $25 fine if you complete safety training.

In fact, San Diego isn't the only place making a fuss about this. Nearby cities like Carlsbad and Chula Vista in San Diego County have already implemented regulations on children riding e-bikes. The overall atmosphere in the county is shifting towards, "Let's not play with kids' lives."

I understand the frustration of parents who feel upset that they've spent a lot of money on electric bicycles only to have restrictions imposed suddenly.

But let's think about it honestly. Do we really need kids zooming around at 32 km/h on heavy machinery?

Regular bicycles may just result in scraped knees and a cry of, "Oh no, Dad!" but with motorized ones, a collision with a car could lead to serious consequences.

The city of San Diego isn't drawing the line at age 12 to punish kids; they're doing it to genuinely protect our children.

Let's take this opportunity to ensure kids wear their helmets and keep e-bikes stored away for now!