UK e-bike law and enforcement
Keep yourself and others safe, both legally and financially, by following UK law as it relates to electric bikes. It's better for everyone.
Illegal DIY converted non-pedal assisted electric bikes
What are the key rules for electric bikes?
- Pedal-assist only: E-bikes must be pedal-assisted. Twist-and-go throttles are illegal on e-bikes in the UK.
- Power and speed limits: Maximum continuous power output is 250 watts, and the assisted speed limit is 15.5 mph (25 kph). Electrical assistance must cut out at higher speeds.
- Labelling: The bike must display the power output of the motor or the manufacturer, and either the battery's voltage or the maximum assisted speed.
- Minimum age: Riders must be at least 14 years old to ride an e-bike on the road.
- Where to ride: E-bikes can be used on cycle paths, bridleways, and public paths open to regular bikes.
What is legally classified as an e-bike?
What is an EAPC?
- Variety: Legal e-bikes in the UK are classified as EAPCs (Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles). They can have two or three wheels, so electric tricycles are included. Four-wheeled vehicles cannot be classified as e-bikes.
Can I convert my traditional bike into an e-bike?
- DIY conversion kits: Ensure that kits comply with EAPC standards (max 250W, 25 kph, no twist-and-go throttle) to avoid reclassification as a motor vehicle.
What paperwork do I need for my electric bike?
Do I need a licence or registration for my e-bike?
- Licence not needed: No driving licence is required if the e-bike is a legal electric bike, meaning that it complies with EAPC regulations.
- Non-compliant e-bikes: If an e-bike doesn't meet EAPC standards, it is classified as a motor vehicle, requiring registration, tax, insurance, and a driving licence. Take particular care to remain compliant if you are doing a DIY conversion.
Do I need insurance for my e-bike?
- Recommended, but not compulsory: Insurance is advisable for e-bikes, especially given their cost.
What happens if I break the law?
Can I be prosecuted for issues that occur when riding my e-bike?
- Traffic offences: Riders can face penalties for offences like speeding or careless driving.
Legal compliance:
- Government enforcement: The UK government enforces e-bike regulations, with local authorities supporting.
- Seizures: Nearly a thousand illegally converted e-bikes were seized in the first half of 2024.
Northern Ireland regulations:
- Consistency: Regulations in Northern Ireland align with the rest of the UK.
Key takeaways
- Only pedal-assisted electric bikes are legal in the UK.
- If you ride an e-bike that does not comply with the law, you are subject to various legal consequences and may have your e-bike confiscated by the police.
- Riders must be 14 years or older to ride an electric bike on the road.
If you'd like to find out more, read our guide to UK e-bike law.