You are either an owner of a fantastic electric bike or looking to join the e-bike revolution and keen to gain clarity on the applicable rules. Do not worry, we have made it easy for you to gain clarity!
Before we proceed with the UK government applicable laws on using an electric bike on public roads, we would like to offer you some helpful guidance:
- Safety first, always! It does not matter whether you use a conventional cycle (pedal power), or an e-bike (power-assist), always use an e-bike with caution. It is imperative to not only protect yourself, but equally important to also protect other road users.
- Always follow the law! It never pays to break the law, in particular when it comes to road transportation. It does not matter what the circumstances are, always follow the law! Responsible riding is enjoyable riding!
- Educate others: educate your family and friends on the law. Their safety is also your safety!
For those of you keen to learn more about e-bikes, follow the links below.
- Buying An Electric Bike: The Basics
- Top Reasons To Buy An Electric Scooter Or An Electric-Bike: Two Wheels Is The Way Forward For Us All!
- Electric Bikes And Sharing Schemes
e-Bikes: The Rules
Yes, there are clear rules for using an electric bike (also known as a power-assisted electric bike) in the UK. The law is part of The Highway Code (road safety and vehicle rules). There are rules for zero-emission e-bike manufacturers and e-bike users. Below are the rules applicable to electric bike riders.
- Age limit: 14 and over.
- License: not required.
- Insurance: not required.
- Registration: does not need to be registered.
- Taxed: does not need to be taxed.
- Where can it be used: cycle paths and other areas designated for pedal bikes.
- Maximum power of the motor: 250 watts.
- Maximum speed: 15.5 mph (25 km/h).
- Must be pedal-assist (assistance must stop once 15.5 mph speed is achieved).
- Throttle allowed only up to walking speed.
- Helmets: recommended but not mandatory.
- The e-bike must display the legally required information either via a sticker or plate (either the battery’s voltage or the maximum speed of the e-bike).
- An EPAC can have more than two-wheels (i.e. a tricycle).
- An EPAC can be used in the same places as conventional cycles.
Top Recommendations
1). Training
If you are new to cycling, we always recommend taking a short course on road safety. Bikeability is an organisation that helps train new and regular cycle users. The organisation offers a number of courses to help you cycle competently and with confidence.
2). Insurance
Even though e-bike insurance is not mandated by UK law, we recommend getting appropriate insurance to protect yourself and the e-bike!
3). Helmets
Always wear appropriate protection gear, in particular a good quality helmet. Never ride an electric bike without a helmet!
At e-zoomed we also offer a fantastic range of electric scooters of all the leading brands. To buy a Segway electric scooter, simply follow this link!
We at e-zoomed are more than happy to assist you with all your EV needs to include:
- Compare and buy your next green car
- Compare and buy EV charging points
- Compare and buy best electric car insurance deals in the UK
- Compare and buy best electric car breakdown cover in the UK
- Compare and buy green electricity for your home and electric vehicle
- Compare and buy best priced electric car charging cables and EV accessories
- Compare and buy best e-scooters!
- Compare and buy electric kick scooters
- Compare and buy an e-bike
And more! Do sign up to our e-newsletter to learn more about e-mobility. Also follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter.
