Amazon announced plans to discontinue sales of certain high-speed electric bicycles in California following recent safety incidents and regulatory guidance from state officials.

The decision comes after California's attorney general issued a consumer alert last month regarding electric bike safety laws, indicating that some vehicles currently marketed as electric bicycles should be classified as mopeds or motorcycles under state regulations.

The move follows several high-profile incidents involving electric bikes in the state. In April, an 81-year-old man in Orange County died after being struck by a teenager riding what officials described as an e-motorcycle. The victim, identified as Ed Ashman, was fatally injured in the collision.

Authorities have since charged the teenager's mother, Tommi Jo Mejer, with involuntary manslaughter in connection with Ashman's death. Officials stated that Mejer had been previously warned that it was illegal for her son to operate the vehicle.

The classification of electric bikes has become an increasingly complex issue as manufacturers produce models with varying speeds and power capabilities. Vehicles that exceed certain speed or power thresholds may require registration, licensing, and insurance similar to motorcycles or mopeds.

Amazon's decision to halt sales of certain models in California reflects growing scrutiny of electric bike regulations and safety standards as the vehicles become more popular for transportation and recreation.