California Law on Motorcycle Wheelies Explained

You’ve seen it on the freeway or social media—someone pops a wheelie on a motorcycle, riding fast with the front tire off the ground. It might look like a cool stunt, but in California, it can land you in serious legal trouble.

Wheelies are more than just showboating on public roads. Law enforcement often treats them as reckless driving or exhibition of speed—both of which carry real penalties like fines, license points, or even jail time.

So, are motorcycle wheelies actually illegal in California? And what happens if you’re pulled over or injured in a wheelie-related crash? Let’s break it down.

California Law on Public Road Wheelies

Motorcycle wheelies are illegal on public roads in California.

There’s no law that uses the word “wheelie,” but the act is still banned under broader vehicle codes. Police often classify it as reckless driving or exhibition of speed—both of which are chargeable offenses.

If you lift your front wheel and ride through traffic, it may be seen as a stunt or aggressive behavior. Even if no one gets hurt, the risk alone can lead to a citation.

But wheelies aren’t always illegal—location matters.

If the stunt takes place on private property, a closed course, or at a sanctioned event, different rules apply. Law enforcement doesn’t regulate wheelies done off public roads—though landowner permission is still required.

Relevant Vehicle Codes for Motorcycle Wheelies in California

California law doesn’t mention “wheelies” by name, but several traffic codes are often used to charge riders who perform them on public roads. Here’s how the law applies:

Reckless Driving – CVC §23103

Reckless driving means operating a vehicle “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.”

If a rider performs a wheelie near traffic, pedestrians, or at high speeds, police may consider it reckless—even if no one is injured.

This is a misdemeanor offense in California. Penalties may include:

• Fines between $145 and $1,000
• 5 to 90 days in jail
• Points on your license.1

Exhibition of Speed – CVC §23109

This law makes it illegal to engage in stunts, racing, or showy driving on public roads.

A wheelie can fall under this category—especially if it’s done to impress others or in front of a crowd.

Penalties may include:

• Heavy fines
• Vehicle impoundment
• A potential criminal record  2

Evading a Police Officer – CVC §2800.1

If you keep riding after a police officer signals you to stop, you could be charged with misdemeanor evasion—even if the initial stop was just for a stunt.

What starts as a wheelie can quickly turn into something more serious if you fail to pull over.3

Unsafe Movement – CVC §22107

This section prohibits any vehicle movement that isn’t safe or disrupts traffic.

While not specific to stunts, officers may use it if they believe your wheelie affected control or posed a risk to others nearby. 4

How Prestige Law Firm Can Help You After a Wheelie Citation or Motorcycle Accident

Whether you’ve been ticketed for a wheelie or injured in a stunt-related crash, you don’t have to handle the legal aftermath alone.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we provide focused legal support for motorcycle riders throughout California—especially in Van Nuys, Palmdale, and surrounding areas.

We know that one mistake—or even a misunderstanding—can lead to steep fines, license points, or worse. That’s why we’re here to defend your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

✅ Personalized Legal Support: As a boutique personal injury and traffic defense firm, we offer direct communication with founding attorney Paul Aghabala—not junior staff or case managers. We review your citation, assess your legal options, and help you avoid unnecessary penalties.

If your case involves injury, property damage, or lost wages, we’ll build a strategy that covers both your financial and physical recovery.

✅ Experience With Motorcycle-Related Cases: Wheelie cases often involve more than just a traffic ticket. They can lead to:

• Accidents and serious injuries
• Disputes with insurance companies
• Long-term impacts on your driving record or finances

We’ve handled cases involving:

• Motorcycle crashes
• Spinal and brain injuries
• Catastrophic injury litigation
• Disputes over fault and liability

We also help you get access to medical care, vehicle repairs, and any rental or out-of-pocket reimbursements you’re entitled to.

✅ No Recovery, No Fee: If your case involves personal injury, you don’t pay unless we win. We work on a contingency basis, meaning our fees come out of your settlement—not your pocket.

For traffic citations, we offer free consultations so you can understand your rights before making any decisions.

📞 Call (818) 788-0808 or (661) 341-3939

📧 Email: paul@prestigelaw.com

Let us fight for your freedom, your record, and your recovery.

Conclusion

Popping a wheelie might feel like a thrill—but on California roads, it can come with serious consequences.

Even if you’re in control, law enforcement often sees wheelies as reckless driving or stunt behavior. You could face tickets, fines, license points, or even a misdemeanor charge—all for a few seconds of showing off.

If you’ve been cited, charged, or injured in a wheelie-related incident, don’t face the legal system alone.

At Prestige Law Firm P.C., we defend riders’ rights with experience, personal attention, and results. Whether you’re fighting a citation or recovering from a motorcycle crash, we’re here to protect your record—and your future.

Contact us today for a free consultation.