Crime Prevention Advice - eBikes and eScooters

E-bikes and E-scooters: What You Need to Know

This month, the Crime Prevention Team is sharing helpful advice about the rules for e-bikes and e-scooters.

Many people have asked what is legal to use in public places. Some are also unaware of what could happen if the rules are broken. This guide explains everything clearly, so you can make safe and informed choices for yourself or your family.

🚲 E-bikes (Electric Bikes)

Electric bikes can be used on public roads, but only if they meet certain rules.

To be legal, an e-bike must:

• Have a motor no more powerful than 250 watts

• Only provide assistance when you are pedalling

• Not have a throttle that moves the bike without pedalling

• Stop assisting once you reach 15.5 mph

You must also be at least 14 years old to ride one on public roads.

If your e-bike meets these rules, you do not need:

• A driving licence

• Insurance

• Road tax or registration

⚠️ Important to Know

If an e-bike has been changed (modified), or does not meet these rules, it is treated like a motor vehicle (similar to a moped).

This means you would then need:

• A driving licence

• Insurance

• Vehicle tax

• Registration

• A helmet

Also, increasing the speed beyond 15.5 mph is illegal for road use in the UK and can be dangerous, as the bike may not be built for higher speeds.

🛴 E-scooters

The rules for e-scooters are much stricter.

Privately owned e-scooters cannot be used in public places, including:

• Roads

• Pavements

• Cycle lanes

• Parks or other public spaces

They can only be used on private land, and only with the landowner’s permission.

⚠️ What Could Happen If Rules Are Broken?

If someone is caught using an illegal e-bike or e-scooter in public, the police can take the vehicle away.

They may also face:

• A fine

• Penalty points on their driving licence

• Delays in getting a provisional or full driving licence

✔️ Final Thoughts

Understanding the rules helps keep everyone safe and avoids unexpected problems.

If you are thinking about buying an e-bike or e-scooter, always check that it follows UK law before using it in public.

🔎 Find Out More

You can read the official government guidance here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrically-assisted-pedal-cycles-eapcs/electrically-assisted-pedal-cycles-eapcs-in-great-britain-information-sheet