E-Bike and E-Scooter Legal Information
In the UK, regulations govern the use of electric bikes and e-scooters. We've consolidated this information to ensure you're informed before buying your electric bike or scooter. Here's a straightforward summary of the laws, helping you understand how to safely and lawfully use your electric bike or scooter.
E-Bikes
Electric bikes, also known as electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs), do not necessitate insurance or a licence. On public roads, the motor is limited to 250W; any bike exceeding this should only be used on private land with the landowner's consent. The speed limit for electric bikes on public roads is 15.5 mph. The majority of our electric bikes comply with UK regulations.
In addition:
- EAPCs do not require a licence.
- EAPCs do not require insurance or registration.
- Riders must be at least 14 years old.
- Helmets are not mandatory.
- On public roads, motors should be limited to 250W.
- On public roads, electric bikes must be pedal-assist, not throttle-powered.
- On public roads, the top speed should be limited to 25 km/h.
Check your bike's specifications and motor size. If the motor exceeds 250W or has speed assistance exceeding 15.5mph, it cannot be used on UK public roads without first obtaining type approval, insurance, tax, displaying a number plate and undergoing an MOT. In the UK, only eBikes that comply with EAPC Regulations can be used on UK public roads without tax, insurance or registration. You can find out more about EAPC Regulations here: https://www.gov.uk/electric-bike-rules.
Electric bikes with a throttle are not considered Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs) and therefore cannot be ridden in public spaces. However, there is a workaround for those interested in select Wisper eBikes. For further information and to read our guide on throttles, please click here.
E-Scooters
Under current UK law, it is illegal to use privately owned electric scooters on public roads. They are only allowed on private land with the landowner’s consent, though changes to this legislation are expected in the future.
As of February 2024, e-scooters remain illegal on public roads due to the absence of specific legislation. The proposed Future Transport Bill, which was expected to address e-scooter regulation, was replaced by the Automated Vehicle Bill in the 2023 King's Speech. Despite e-scooter trials and research, no significant progress has been made, with political changes and competing transport priorities causing further delays. There are suggestions to regulate e-scooters similarly to e-bikes, with a 15.5mph speed limit and motor power restrictions, but no formal steps have been taken. Until new laws are passed, e-scooters are only legal on private land or as mobility aids under limited conditions.
It is the purchaser's responsibility to adhere to all relevant UK laws, both national and local, when riding their electric scooter. The most up-to-date information can be found from the government website here.
For further assistance, please reach out to us on info@bikeyardonline.co.uk.
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Last Updated: 19/11/2024
