EBIKE DEFINITIONS EXPLAINED
Electric Bicycles are “electrically assisted pedal cycles” (or EAPC, or E-Bike, or Pedelec). If the bike has pedals that propel it; the electric motor won’t assist you when you’re travelling more than 25 km/h (15.5mph); and the power doesn’t exceed 250 watts:
- It can be ridden on cycle paths
- Must be over 14 years of age
- Do not need a licence
- No road tax required
You may find off-road bikes that can go faster than 15.5 mph by flicking a switch, but for UK law these are not compliant with EAPC regulations for on-road use.
What if an electric bike is faster than 15.5mph?
If an E-Bike is faster than 15.5mph, it is classed as a Speed-Pedelec, and the rules are very different:
- Cannot be ridden on cycle paths
- Must be approved via DVLA
- You will need a driving licence to ride
- Must have road tax
- Must be Insured - minimum 'Third Party'
- You must wear a motorcycle helmet
What about throttle E-Bikes?
Most of our E-Bikes are not throttle driven, but those that are on the market must adhere to the following:
- Not exceed 3.7mph (i.e. starting assistance only)
- If rolling, but not pedalling faster than 3.7mph, the throttle cuts off
- If pedalling, the rider will achieve assistance to the limit – 15.5mph