UK considers stricter E-bike regulations amid safety concerns

During Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday, Burnham addressed concerns raised by Glasgow North MP Martin Rhodes regarding online retailers selling equipment that surpasses legal limits. Burnham stated, “We are considering tougher regulations for the sale of non-compliant e-bikes and conversion kits across the UK.”

He emphasized the need to address the safety risks associated with e-bikes operating at excessive speeds.

UK regulations mandate that e-bikes adhere to specific safety standards, including motor assistance while pedalling, a maximum speed of 15.5 mph, and a power limit of 250 watts. However, readily available online conversion kits can allow riders to modify bikes, exceeding these legal boundaries.

Rhodes highlighted the anxieties of his constituents in Glasgow North regarding the rise of illegally modified e-bikes traveling at dangerous speeds. He stated, “Online marketplaces are selling unsafe e-bikes and conversion kits that take pedal cycles beyond the legal limits, leaving pedestrians, families, vulnerable people worried for their safety going about their daily lives.”

Food delivery service Deliveroo announced in October that drivers using illegally modified, high-speed e-bikes will be banned from the platform, utilizing technology to monitor speeds.

Police Scotland recently cautioned parents against purchasing e-bikes for children, citing concerns over antisocial use within communities. The chairman of the Scottish Police Federation has expressed worry about the increased use of e-bikes and e-scooters.

Last week, the government initiated a consultation regarding e-bike parking regulations, aiming to establish clearer rules for operators, riders, and local councils to combat nuisance parking and antisocial behavior.