Allen Police Chief Steve Dye told City Council on July 14, that officers will begin issuing citations, impounding vehicles and making arrests for dangerous e-motorcycle violations after months of education-only outreach.

The department has documented roughly 150 e-motorcycle interactions between January and mid-July 2026, according to a city press release summarizing Dye's presentation. Most involve juveniles riding at excessive speeds, performing stunts on sidewalks and trails, or fleeing from officers.

"Our goal isn't to write tickets," Dye said.

The distinction matters for Allen parents shopping for electric two-wheelers. Under Texas law, e-bikes have pedals, top out at 28 mph with motors capped at 750 watts, and can be ridden anywhere a regular bicycle goes. Riders must be at least 15 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike. No license, registration or insurance is required.

E-motorcycles are a different animal. They have no pedals, run on full throttle and can reach speeds of 50 to 60 mph. Texas classifies them as Class M motor vehicles, meaning riders need a motorcycle license, registration, insurance, safety lighting and turn signals. They are banned from bike lanes, trails and sidewalks.

The Allen Police Department warns that some e-motorcycles are sold with labels claiming speeds under 28 mph, even though the vehicles have been modified or are capable of much higher speeds. The department's fact sheet urges parents to check for fake pedals on devices marketed as e-bikes.

Education first, then enforcement

Dye said the department spent several months distributing flyers in neighborhoods and businesses, working with apartment managers and homeowners associations, and producing educational videos with the city's public relations office. School Resource Officers are partnering with Allen Independent School District and plan to expand outreach when students return to campus in August.

The shift does not mean every stop ends in a ticket. When officers encounter a juvenile on an e-motorcycle, their first step is to contact the child's parent or guardian. Minor offenses may still result in warnings, according to the city's press release. But reckless driving, fleeing from police or other criminal behavior will now draw citations, vehicle impoundment or arrest.

Parents who knowingly allow their child to operate an illegal e-motorcycle can also face legal consequences, the department said.

Lt. Jonathan Maness, who oversees the department's Special Operations Division including School Resource Officers and the Traffic Unit, addressed the issue on the Allen Police Department's Behind the Badge podcast. "We don't want to see any of our kids get hurt," Maness said. "Know the law before you buy."

Residents can find educational resources, a public service announcement and details on Texas e-motorcycle laws.