Due to the ongoing pandemic, we are seeing bicycle and electric bike sales rocket, but sales have been on the rise for some time. There is a growing interest in electric bikes in the UK, and even more so in other parts of Europe. Many of us have been looking for new ways to get to our destination. Electric moped scooter, though popular, are still illegal for use on public land in the UK hence why electric bikes are a popular choice. Electric bikes offer a great way to get around fast while avoiding public transport. Most bicycles sold as electric bikes (or EAPCs – electrically assisted pedal bikes) are perfectly legal for use in the UK and are treated as push bikes.
Even though electric scooters are popular in the UK, they are still illegal to use on public land, thus electric bikes are preferred. However, for the electric bike to be used legally in public spaces, the rider must be over the age of 14, the electric bike must have pedals and the motor output must now exceed 250W and it should not go faster than 15.5mph/25km per hour. Some electric bikes come with motors capable of more than 250W. While you can own one, these bikes are however not permitted to be on the road.
When your electrical bike meets the criteria mentioned previously. The user must also remember that the electric bike has to adhere to the same regulations as a traditional bicycle. Your electric bike should always have functioning red and white front and rear lights and reflectors fitted to your bike during the night. Frontal and rear brakes should also be properly maintained. Bicycles should not be operated while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Bicycles should not be operated without due consideration for other road users. The road must be either a designated cycling path or a road, and you should obey regular traffic laws, such as stopping at red lights. It is forbidden to hold on to a moving motor vehicle or trailer and passengers must not be carried on a bike unless it has been modified to accommodate it.
Fastest Electric bike with a “twist-and-go” throttle that can go faster than four mph without any pedal assistance are illegal. The motorbikes would be classified as motor vehicles and would have to be registered with the DVLA, taxed, and insured just like any other vehicle. Other recommendations for cycling (including electric bikes) include wearing adequate safety gear (such as a helmet and high-visibility clothing), fitting a bell, not using your phone while riding, pulling over to avoid long traffic jams, and riding in single file, to the right of the lane, and is a cycling lane when available.
