Austin police increase enforcement of high-powered electric motorcycle rules

September 17, 2026

The Austin Police Department announced an increased enforcement effort focused on high-powered electric motorcycles, called e-motos, following concerns raised at the Austin Mobility Committee meeting on Sept. 3. APD officials said the move responds to a noticeable increase in e-motos operating where registered vehicles and bicycles are expected to be.

William White, who leads APD’s Highway Enforcement Command, said officers have observed e-motos creating risky conditions for other road users. The department plans to step up contacts with riders, issuing more warnings and citations, and arresting riders when violations are serious.

Under Texas law e-motos are classified as motorcycles because they do not meet the legal definition of e-bikes. E-motos typically lack pedals, use motors rated above 750 watts and can reach unassisted speeds of 28 miles per hour or higher. As motorcycles they require a motorcycle license, proof of insurance and riders under 21 must wear helmets.

White noted that many people assume e-motos can be used like e-bikes because they are legally available for purchase, and that misunderstanding is part of why APD wants to raise public awareness. To help officers identify these vehicles, the department has distributed guidance to patrol personnel and posted educational videos on its social media channels.

On the policy side, Austin City Council member Zohaib Qadri, who represents District 9, co-sponsored a resolution in May directing the city to create clearer rules, expand officer training and run a public information campaign. The initiative began with Council member Paige Ellis and targets safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists, citing a rise in e-moto use among teenagers and children.

Qadri said he views current laws as generally adequate but believes enforcement has lagged. At the University of Texas campus, a university spokesperson said UTPD has not received calls related to e-motos, and that campus restrictions on personal electric vehicles were adopted to address prior problems. UTPD and Parking and Transportation Services continue enforcing existing campus rules within their areas of responsibility.