Parents urged to act as Norfolk Police warns of consequences of e-bikes

Norfolk Police is issuing a warning to parents and carers about the dangers of e-bikes following recent tragic incidents which have sadly resulted in deaths and serious injuries throughout the county.

The exact circumstances of these incidents remain under investigation however they serve as devastating reminders that these vehicles are not harmless toys or bicycles. When modified beyond legal limits, they can become powerful motor vehicles capable of reaching speeds far in excess of those designed for safe use by children and young people.

Many parents and carers may be unknowingly putting their children at risk by purchasing, illegally modifying, or allowing the use of e-bikes whilst underage.

Chief Inspector Gary Miller said: “We know many parents and carers will try and make the best decisions for their children and may not always be aware of the risks associated with some e-bikes, particularly those that have been modified or are capable of travelling at much higher speeds than people realise.

“We would ask families to take a moment and consider whether vehicle capable of reaching roads speeds but requires no training, licence or registration, is something a child can use safely.

“These incidents are a stark reminder that e-bikes are not toys. When they are modified beyond legal limits, they can become powerful machines capable of causing serious injury or worse.

“Our aim is not to blame families, but to help people understand the risks and make informed decisions that keep children and young people safe. We all have a role to play in preventing further tragedies, and if this message encourages even one conversation about safety at home, it will be worthwhile.”

Officers are taking the opportunity to clarify what makes an electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC) legal.

Under current regulations, you must be aged 14 or over to ride an electric bike. A legal e-bike must have working pedals and an electric motor with a maximum power output of 250 watts. The motor must not be capable of providing assistance when the bike is travelling above 15.5mph. Any throttle assistance must cut out at 3.7mph. Bikes must also display specified manufacturer and technical information.

Any electric bike that does not meet these requirements is treated as a motorcycle or moped, meaning it must be registered, taxed and insured. The rider must hold the appropriate driving licence and a crash helmet must be worn.

Many of the vehicles being seen across Norfolk significantly exceed these legal limits and are therefore being ridden unlawfully.

We continue to receive concerns from residents about dangerous riding, anti-social behaviour and the use of illegally modified pedal cycles in local communities across the county. Officers have been conducting enforcement and spot checks as a part of Operation Silent, with illegally modified bikes being seized where appropriate.

However, we know that enforcement alone cannot solve the problem. Chief Inspector Gary Miller added: "People often ask why officers do not simply chase every rider they see breaking the law. The reality is far more complicated.

“Police pursuits carry significant risk, particularly when the rider is a child or young person who may have little experience controlling a vehicle. A pursuit could result in serious injury or death to the rider, passengers, pedestrians or other road users.

“In many cases, these vehicles have no registration plate or identifying features. If officers cannot safely stop them at the time, there are often very limited opportunities for follow-up enquiries.

“This means we cannot simply enforce our way out of the problem. Action has to start at the source."

We are urging parents and carers to think carefully before buying an e-bike for their child and to ensure any bike complies with UK law.

Parents and carers who allow their children to ride an illegally modified e-bike or ride a legal e-bike whilst under the age of 14, are liable for prosecution under the ‘use, cause or permit’ principle of the Road Traffic Act 1988.  This makes individuals legally responsible not just for their own driving, but also for allowing others to use a vehicle in an unlawful, uninsured, or dangerous condition.

Officers are seeing too many young people are being given access to powerful vehicles without appropriate training, safety equipment or an understanding of the risks involved.

"Parents and carers have a crucial role to play," said Chief Inspector Gary Miller.

"We understand that nobody buys these bikes expecting their child to be seriously injured or killed. But the consequences we have seen show exactly what can happen.

“We are asking families to have honest conversations about safety, check whether any e-bike they own is legal, and stop supplying or allowing the use of illegally modified machines.

“No enforcement operation, seizure campaign or police activity can be as effective as a parent making the decision that their child's safety comes first."

Norfolk Police will continue targeted enforcement activity against illegally modified pedal cycles, while working with partners and communities to raise awareness of the risks and prevent further tragedies.

Anyone concerned about the use of illegally modified e-bikes in their area can report information via our website or by calling 101.

You can read more about e-bikes and the law here: What you need to know: electric bikes | Norfolk Constabulary