What makes an E-bike legal?

Most E- bikes can be ridden legally in the UK. The regulations are categorised under the EAPC standard (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle).

You can ride an EAPC if you’re 14 or over.  You do not need a licence to ride an EAPC and it does not need to be registered, taxed or insured.  Younger riders can use an EAPC on private land with the permission of the landowner.

An EAPC must have pedals that can be used to propel it.  It can have more than 2 wheels (e.g. a tricycle). It can be propelled up to 15.5mph without pedalling but it must stop providing assistance at 15.5mph.

Its electric motor must have a ‘continuous rated power’ output of no more than 250 watts.

The markings on the bike must show the bike manufacturer and the continuous rated power output. It must also show either the battery’s voltage or the maximum assisted speed.

If your bike is an EAPC then you can ride it anywhere that pedal bikes are allowed.  You cannot ride it on pavements. If your E-bike is not an EAPC then you can only ride it on the road (not cycle tracks or cycle paths).

If your electric bike is not an EAPC it must be registered, taxed and insured. 

You also need to get a valid licence to ride it and wear a motorcycle helmet that meets British safety standards. 

Full throttle (twist and go) E-bikes that are not propelled by pedalling are not EAPCs.  They are classed as mopeds.

If your bike is classed as a motorcycle or moped but has not been insured, you may be prosecuted for riding it may be seized by the Police.

For free initial legal advice about any criminal matter contact our team on: 01606592159.