Fort Bend deputies say illegal electric motorcycle riding continues in Katy-area neighborhoods despite months of warnings and complaints.
FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas — Parents in Fort Bend County are being warned that dangerous and illegal riding involving electric motorcycles continues to be a growing problem months after deputies first raised concerns in the Katy area.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The video above is from a report in January in the same issue.
Precinct 1 Constable Chad Norvell said some parents are still ignoring repeated warnings and education efforts about high-powered electric motorcycles being ridden illegally on streets, sidewalks and trails.
“These motorcycles continue to be a problem across the region,” Norvell wrote in a social media post Thursday. “Parents are ignoring the education being shared by agencies across the State. Kids are reckless and running from deputies and what would be a ticket becomes a felony charge.”
KHOU 11 previously reported on the issue in January after residents in Katy-area neighborhoods complained about teens riding electric motorcycles recklessly through streets, sidewalks and neighborhood walking areas.
At the time, Norvell said deputies were receiving increasing complaints about riders performing wheelies, blocking traffic and riding dangerously near pedestrians and vehicles.
Norvell said some of the riders involved in recent incidents may be connected to previous complaints and viral videos shared online.
In comments responding to residents, Norvell said deputies are intentionally avoiding pursuits over traffic violations because of the danger involved.
“We do enforce traffic laws. We’re not chasing kids,” Norvell wrote. “They’ll get caught at some point.”
He later added: “Kids make poor choices. I’m not having a deputy pursue them over a traffic violation which could end their life. The risk isn’t worth it.”
The constable’s office also renewed warnings that many vehicles commonly referred to as “e-bikes” may legally qualify as electric motorcycles under Texas law.
According to the agency, vehicles without pedals are considered electric motorcycles and are not legal for use on roads, sidewalks or trails. Officials warned that citations involving the vehicles could affect a teen’s ability to obtain a driver’s license at age 16.
Norvell previously explained that many of the vehicles lack required safety equipment such as headlights, brake lights and turn signals and are often operated without licenses, registration or insurance.
“The MC aren’t legal for use except on private property, which 99% likely don’t have,” Norvell wrote in response to one commenter.
The department also shared a graphic outlining the differences between legal e-bikes and electric motorcycles, warning riders and parents that misuse could lead to citations, fines or accidents.
According to the graphic:
- Operates with pedals and electric assist
- Top speed of 20-28 mph
- No license, registration or insurance required
- Can use bike lanes and trails
- Riders must be at least 15 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike
- Must have a motor of no more than 750 watts
- No pedals and throttle only
- Speeds above 30 mph
- Requires a driver’s license, registration and insurance
- Not allowed on bike trails or sidewalks
- Treated the same as gas-powered motorcycles under the law
“Ride smart. Ride legal.”
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