Are there handlebar height restrictions on motorcycles in California?

Yes, like many other states, California has laws against motorcyclists riding with handlebars which are too high. According to state law, a person operating a two-wheeled motorcycle must have handlebars which are positioned so the hands of the rider are not more than six inches above the rider’s shoulders when resting on the grips (when the rider is seated on the motorcycle).

It is important to note that while many states have handlebar laws which limit the number of inches the handlebar grips can be from the seat, California’s handlebar laws are based on the distance from the rider’s shoulders to the rider’s hands resting on the grips. Contact one of our Orange County Motorcycle Accident Attorneys to learn more.

High Handlebars

High handlebars—often called ape hangers by riders—are often found on customized choppers and have gained popularity in recent years. However, many lawmakers believe that handlebars over a certain height can create a safety hazard on our roads, highways, and interstates. When handlebars reach a certain height, they can make controlling and steering the bike more difficult. In some cases, they can even obscure vision.

Have you been involved in a California motorcycle accident which you believe may have been caused by illegal handlebar height? If so, we encourage you to speak with an Orange County personal injury attorney about your case.

Contact our Orange County Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

The experienced Orange County Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at Russell & Lazarus are available to discuss your case in a free, confidential consultation. To schedule your complimentary meeting, contact us today by calling our office toll-free at (800) 268-9228. Let us show you how we can help.