Are eBikes legal? What you need to know
eBike Laws and Regulations: A Complete Guide for 2024
Electric bikes (eBikes) have become increasingly popular as sustainable and efficient alternatives to traditional transportation. With their rise in popularity, you might be curious as to what makes an eBike illegal, and if eBikes are legal. This comprehensive guide will explore eBike laws, helping you navigate the regulations and ensure your ride is legal and safe.
What’s the Difference Between eBikes and eMotorbikes?
The main difference between eBikes and eMotorbikes is that eBikes are simply bicycles equipped with an electric motor to assist in propulsion. They have a lower power and speed in comparison to an eMotorbike and are ideal for short commutes and leisure, and are assisted by pedals. Whereas eMotorbikes are controlled by a throttle with more power and speed than an eBike. Technically, eBikes are known as ‘electrically assisted pedal cycles’ (or EAPCs).
Do You Need a License For an Electric Bike?
No, unlike an eMotorbike you do not need a license to ride one, and it does not need to be registered, taxed, or insured.
Legal Requirements for eBikes in the UK
While eBikes are legal, they need to meet three simple requirements to comply with UK laws.
Pedal Requirement
An EAPC or eBike must have pedals that can be used to propel
Motor Power Output
Its electric motor must have a maximum power output of 250 watts
Speed Limit
The electric motor must not provide assistance when it’s travelling more than 15.5mph
When you purchase an eBike with EBCO eBikes, you don’t need to worry about whether or not your bike is legal, as all of our eBikes are 100% compliant.
What age can you ride an electric bike?
There is a minimum legal age requirement for eBikes. You must be at least 14 or over to ride.
What Makes an eBike Illegal?
An electric bicycle not compliant with EAPC regulations (above the 15.5mph or 250w limit, or with a throttle) is categorised as a motor vehicle and requires registration and taxation to be ridden legally. Riding such a vehicle mandates a valid driver’s license and the use of a motorcycle helmet.
Where Can You Ride Your eBike?
These faster bikes cannot be used on cycle lanes, but electric bikes are perfectly legal on UK roads as normal pedal bikes are.
Safe, Legal and Compliant eBikes from EBCO
All EBCO eBikes adhere to the legal requirements for electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs). With pedals for propulsion, a maximum power output of 250 watts, and a speed limit of 15.5mph.
You can enjoy the convenience and benefits of EBCO eBikes without worrying about their legality. Whether commuting through urban streets or exploring scenic bike paths, EBCO eBikes offer a legal and eco-friendly mode of transportation for individuals of all ages, ready to shop eBikes? Explore the range today.
