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Christmas present advice.If your child has asked for an electric bike or scooter for Christmas, then please read the below. It is a lot of money to spend on a single item that could be seized and disposed of. We are increasing operations to remove illegal E-bikes from the streets, so please bear this in mind when shopping for the kids. E-ScootersPrivate e-scooters:- Still illegal on public roads, pavements, and cycle lanes.
- Only legal on private land with landowner’s permission.
- Classified as “powered transporters” under the Road Traffic Act.
- Cannot get insurance for public use, so riding in public = offence.
- Penalties: £300 fine, 6 licence points, possible seizure.
Rental e-scooters (trial zones):- Legal in approved areas until May 2026.
- Requirements:
- Provisional or full driving licence.
- Speed capped at 15.5 mph.
- Insurance provided by operator.
- Helmets recommended but not mandatory.
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E-Bikes (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles – EAPCs)- Current Rules:
- Must have pedals that can propel the bike.
- Motor power limit: 250W continuous.
- Motor assistance stops at 15.5 mph (25 km/h).
- No licence, insurance, or registration required.
- Rider must be 14+ years old.
- Can be used on roads and cycle paths, not pavements.
- If it exceeds these limits (e.g., throttle-only, >250W, or >15.5 mph):
- It’s classed as a moped/motorcycle.
- Requires registration, insurance, licence, helmet, and MOT.
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