Legal Guide

Electric Bikes (E-Bikes) – UK Laws and Regulations Definition

Electric bikes, called Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs), are equipped with electric motors to assist pedalling. To be classified as an EAPC in the UK:

  • The motor power must not exceed 250W.
  • The speed limit for motor assistance is 15.5mph (25 km/h).

 

Key Legal Requirements

1. No License or Insurance Required

  • EAPCs do not require a driving license, insurance, or vehicle registration.

2. Age Limit

  • Riders must be at least 14 years old to legally ride an EAPC.

3. Throttle Use

  • Electric bikes with a throttle (that powers the bike without pedalling) are not considered EAPCs and are subject to different rules, often requiring insurance and registration.

4. Helmets

  • Not mandatory for e-bike riders, but wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for safety.

5. Motor Power and Public Roads

  • Motors must be limited to 250W and must assist pedalling only. Bikes with more powerful motors or speeds exceeding 15.5mph can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission.

 

Additional Tips for Compliance

  • Check Specifications: Ensure your e-bike complies with UK regulations (250W motor limit, pedal assist only on public roads).
  • Throttle-Enabled E-Bikes: If your bike has a throttle-only mode, it cannot legally be used in public spaces unless it complies with stricter moped rules (insurance, registration, and license required).

 

E-Bike Summary

  • No license, insurance, or registration is required.
  • 14 years old minimum to ride.
  • Helmets are not mandatory but recommended.
  • 250W motor power limit and 15.5mph speed limit for public roads.
  • Private land use: More powerful motors or speeds above 15.5mph are permitted only with landowner permission.

 

Electric Scooters – UK Regulations Current Law

Under current UK law, privately owned electric scooters:

  • Are illegal to use on public roads, pavements, or cycle lanes.
  • Can only be ridden on private land with the landowner’s permission.

 

Changes Expected in the Future

  • On 10 May 2022, the UK Government announced plans to legalize electric scooters in the Queen’s Speech.
  • Legal changes are expected to take effect 12+ months after this date, once the Transport Bill is passed through Parliament.

 

Proposed Regulations for E-Scooters

While details are yet to be finalized, it is anticipated that the new laws will include regulations similar to those for rental scooters currently in use, including:

  • Speed Limit: Likely restricted to 25 km/h (15.5 mph).
  • Motor Power: Limited to 250W maximum.
  • Safety Features: Requirements such as automatic lights.

Manufacturers are expected to innovate to meet these new legal standards as the Transport Bill progresses.

 

Rental Electric Scooters

  • Rental e-scooters are currently part of government-approved trials in certain UK cities.
  • These scooters are limited to 15.5 mph, require riders to hold at least a provisional driving license, and are insured by the rental provider.

If you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance, please reach out to our customer service team:

  • Phone: +44 333 880 8899
  • Email: support@wattpedal.com
  • Hours of Operation: Monday–Friday: 09:00–18:00 GMT
  • Saturday–Sunday: Closed