New E-Bike Legislation: Know the Rules Before You Ride

New E-Bike Legislation: Know the Rules Before You Ride

We continue to see a growing number of illegally modified e-bikes and e-scooters being used on our roads. Many of these machines are capable of extremely high speeds, creating a serious risk to riders, pedestrians, and other road users.

What is a legal e-bike?

A road-legal Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) must:

• Have pedals that can be used to propel the bike.
• Have an electric motor with a maximum continuous power output of 250 watts.
• Only provide electric assistance up to 15.5mph (25km/h).
• Display the manufacturer's details and power output.

If your bike exceeds these limits or can be propelled without pedalling, it may be classed as a motor vehicle and must meet the same legal requirements as a motorcycle or moped.

What is illegal?

Many high-powered e-bikes and e-scooters sold online or in shops are not legal for use on public roads, cycle paths or pavements. Some can reach speeds far above the legal limit and are often marketed as "off-road use only".

Please be aware that retailers are not always required to clearly tell customers that these vehicles are illegal to ride on public roads. Just because a shop sells it does not mean it is road legal.

Police Enforcement

We are conducting a number of operations targeting illegal e-bikes and e-scooters across our area. Officers are actively identifying and stopping riders using vehicles that do not comply with the law.

If you are found riding an illegal e-bike or e-scooter, you could face:

• A fine.
• Penalty points on your driving licence.
• Prosecution for offences such as driving without insurance or the appropriate licence.
• Seizure of the vehicle.

These vehicles can cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds, but that investment could be lost if the vehicle is seized by police.

Our Advice

Before purchasing an e-bike or e-scooter, do your research and make sure it is legal for the way you intend to use it. Ask questions, check the specifications, and don't assume that because a vehicle is being sold it can be lawfully used on the road.

Let's work together to keep our roads and communities safe.