Illegal e-bikes and private e-scooters seized during operation

The Cheltenham Neighbourhood Policing Team had a very productive afternoon yesterday (Wednesday) stopping and seizing illegal e-bikes and private e-scooters as part of a planned operation involving multiple teams.

Three privately owned e-scooters and two illegal e-bikes were seized as part of this operation as well as returning one stolen bicycle to its rightful owner.

The two riders of the illegal e-bikes were also arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs and enquiries are ongoing.

Privately owned e-scooters and e-bikes that exceed the legal limits all require road tax, vehicle insurance, and a valid MOT to be ridden on public land due to being treated as motor vehicles by law.

Electric bikes should not exceed 250 watts and the maximum speed which the motor can legally assist the bike whilst pedalling must not exceed 15.5mph or 24.94 km/h.

In addition, the electric motor should not assist the bike to exceed 3.7mph or 5.95km when unassisted (e.g. the rider is not pedalling).

Anyone breaking the law risks a £300 fixed penalty notice, six points on a driving licence, and your illegal electric bike or scooter being seized and destroyed.

More information on the laws and regulations around e-bikes and e-scooters can be found here: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/news/gloucestershire/2025/august/warning-that-police-in-cheltenham-will-seize-illegal-e-bikes-and-e-scooters/