Expert reveals four electric bike laws every cyclist needs to be aware of

There has been a rising popularity for electric bikes (e-bikes) and the industry is expected to grow rapidly in the next few years, with figures from Statista suggesting that the global e-bike industry could be valued at over £50 billion by 2030.

E-bikes are transforming how residents in major cities travel, whether via personal bikes or cycle-sharing schemes like London’s Santander Cycles. However, despite its boom, the laws around e-bikes are still unknown.

To raise awareness, Lena Farnell, Associate from Cycle SOS has shared 4 things Brits need to know before using electric bikes.

Age restrictions
“Unlike regular bikes, you must be 14 or older to ride an e-bike, as long as the bike meets the requirements of being an electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs). According to the Gov.uk website, an EAPC must show:

The power output or the manufacturer of the motor.
The battery’s voltage or the maximum speed of the bike.
An EAPC must also have a maximum output of 250 watts and should not be able to be propelled when its speed is above 15.5mph. To find all of this information, you ask the bike supplier to find out if you’re buying an electric bike suitable for a 14-year-old.”

Careless cycling
“Similar to regular cycling, riding an e-bike and being under the influence of alcohol or drugs can cause careless cycling and could land you with a fine of up to £1,000. Whether intoxicated e-bike users are riding on a pavement or road, they would be deemed as unfit to ride as they could cause harm to themselves, other road users or pedestrians.

In 2020, 5% of all reported road traffic collisions involved at least one drunk driver or rider over the legal alcohol limit. Drinking alcohol means that your inhibitions get lowered and your reaction times get slower, increasing the risk of crashing, so it is advised that you do not drink alcohol if you intend to cycle.”

Road use
“E-bikes are allowed on public roads and cycle paths, and they must follow the same traffic rules as traditional bikes. The Highway Code states that cyclists must not ride their bike on the pavement, otherwise they could receive an immediate £30 fixed penalty notice fine, and it suggests that this could be the same e-bike users too.”

Safety clothing
“It is recommended that every cyclist wears safety clothing, as stated by the Highway Code. Although it’s not mandatory, it is advised that cyclists should wear a helmet, light-coloured or fluorescent clothing to help road users see you and avoid crashes. Now that the darker nights are looming, it’s becoming more of a necessity for all bike users to invest in safety clothing.”

If you’re a cyclist that has been involved in an accident, Cycle SOS are here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For assistance, visit our website or call for free on 0808 100 9995 to speak to one of our specialist solicitors.